UTOPIA University: Internet Slang Decoded
Hello and welcome back to UTOPIA University- your crash course into all things internet! Today, we will be diving into something that we all use but don’t always understand, internet slang. We’re breaking it all down from what your internet provider is talking about to casual internet slang that people use. If you’re trying to understand what “no cap” means or what “rizz” means, this episode is for you! Let’s start with some of our tech lingo that powers our online experience:
Gigabits per second (gbps):
Measures network speed and equals one billion bits per second.
Gigabits per second is the way to measure internet speed. The higher the number, the higher your internet connection. If you have 1 gig, that means your internet is moving through light speed. 1 gig speed is ideal for 4k streaming, uploading files, gaming, etc.
Megabits per second (mbps):
Is a unit of internet speeds, representing one million bits per second.
Megabits per second is also a way to measure internet speed, just on a smaller scale. This speed is traditionally known for your everyday stuff like scrolling through TikTok, Instagram, streaming Netflix, just your traditional, standard stuff that you do everyday at home.
Bandwidth:
Is the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection in a given amount of time.
Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be sent over to your internet connection all at once. The more bandwidth you have, the more your internet connection can handle at once. For example, if you’re streaming on a device, gaming on another, or playing something in the background all at the same time.
Broadband:
Is a high speed internet connection that can carry large amounts of data at once.
Broadband. You probably have heard this word before in the internet world but you might not know what it means. It’s what most people in urban and suburban areas use. It can come through DLC, Cable, or Fiber. If you were curious, yes. Fiber is the fastest, and most reliable out of the group.
Internet Service Provider (ISP):
Is a company that provides you access to the internet.
Your ISP is the company that actually gives you your internet connection. They are the ones who provide the internet to your home or business. Your ISP is typically who you contact when your internet is acting up.
Open Access:
Means multiple internet providers share one network, offering more choices to users.
Open access is a type of network setup where we have multiple ISPs that offer their service on the same fiber line. Instead of being locked into one ISP, you get to choose who you get your internet from (and can switch ISPs at any time).
Now that we’ve covered all the tech jargon, let’s get into the internet’s favorite language: slang.
Unhinged:
Means someone or something is mentally unstable, erratic, or wildly unpredictable. Basically, off the rails.
Delulu:
A slang term for being delusional, usually in a playful or lighthearted way, like believing in something that is unlikely but fun to imagine.
Chill Guy:
Describes someone who’s easygoing, relaxed, and hard to stress out. Basically, the person who stays calm no matter what’s happening.
Bot:
A casual term for someone who seems a little disconnected, awkward, or automatic in their actions.
Crashout:
To react intensely and impulsively to a stressful situation, often involving a mental breakdown or a loss of control.
POV (Point of View):
Used on social media to indicate that the video is being presented from a specific perspective, often the creator’s.
AFK (Away From Keyboard):
A quick way to indicate that someone is temporarily unavailable, whether they’re taking a break from gaming, texting, or other online activity.
Main Character:
Someone who acts as if they are the central protagonist in their own life, often exuding confidence and self-assuredness.
It’s Giving:
When someone or something evokes a particular vibe, aesthetic, or energy.
Bet:
Is a versatile term meaning “okay”, “sure”, “you got it”, or “I’m down,” often used to confirm or agree with someone.
Lowkey:
Often used to downplay feelings, interests, or opinions, suggesting a casual or understated level of engagement.
Now that you’re fluent in both terms and internet slang, you’re ready to navigate the internet world. Whether you’re on the phone with your ISP or trying to decode what your nephew has just said in a text message, you’ve got the vocab to keep up! We hope that you learned something new and hope you join us for our next UTOPIA University!
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