Language is constantly changing, and what was once cool or trendy can now sound outdated or even cringe-worthy. Phrases that were popular in the 1960s often don’t resonate with younger generations, who see them as relics of a different time.
Here are some sayings from the ’60s that younger people roll their eyes at or just can’t relate to.
“Groovy”
Back in the ’60s, calling something “groovy” meant it was cool, stylish, or fun. Today, though, this word feels hopelessly dated and more like a parody of the hippie era than something anyone would seriously say. Younger people often hear it used sarcastically or in old movies, but it rarely makes its way into everyday conversations anymore.
“Far Out”
This phrase was a popular way to express awe or amazement in the 1960s, often tied to the counterculture and psychedelic movements of the time. People used it to describe anything out of the ordinary or truly impressive, like a mind-blowing piece of music or a unique experience.
However, to younger generations, it sounds out of place and overly dramatic, as if someone’s imitating an old movie or making fun of the era.
“Sock It to Me”
This phrase gained fame in the late ’60s, thanks in part to TV shows like Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. It was often used to mean “hit me with it” or “give it to me straight,” and it had a playful, daring tone. While it was trendy then, today’s younger generations find it dated and awkward, especially since its meaning isn’t immediately clear.
It’s rarely heard outside of references to its original context, making it one of those sayings that hasn’t stood the test of time.
“What a Gas”
In the 1960s, describing something fun or entertaining as “a gas” was a common way to show enthusiasm. Whether it was a lively party or a great time with friends, this phrase captured the joy of the moment. Younger people, however, find it confusing or even a bit silly, as the word “gas” now brings to mind something entirely different – like fuel or flatulence.
It’s one of those expressions that feels stuck in its era, with little hope of making a comeback.
“The Man”
Back then, “The Man” was a way to refer to authority figures, particularly ones who were seen as oppressive or part of “the system.” It was a key phrase during the counterculture movements, symbolizing rebellion against government or corporate control. These days, younger generations don’t use it nearly as often, finding it outdated and lacking the punch it once had.
“Right On”
This was a versatile phrase in the ’60s, often used to show agreement or approval. It had a positive, laid-back vibe that fit perfectly with the era’s casual culture. Younger people, however, find it to be overly retro and even a little corny.
They’re more likely to say “for sure” or “totally” when they agree with something, as “right on” feels like it belongs in a time capsule.
“Make Love, Not War”
This iconic slogan of the peace movement carried a powerful message during the 1960s, representing anti-war sentiment and a push for love and harmony. While its message is still relevant, the phrase itself has lost its appeal.
Younger people often find it cheesy or overly simplistic, especially since it’s been heavily commercialized over the years. It’s now more likely to show up on a vintage T-shirt than in a meaningful conversation.
“Bread” (for Money)
In the ’60s, calling money “bread” was part of the slang that made the era so distinctive. It was often tied to the idea of earning your share or “making bread.” For today’s generations, though, this term sounds confusing or overly dated.
“Outta Sight”
This phrase was the ultimate way to describe something truly fantastic in the ’60s. Whether it was a killer outfit or an unforgettable concert, “outta sight” let everyone know just how amazing it was. Nowadays, the phrase sounds clunky and overly theatrical to younger people. It’s been replaced with simpler, more direct terms like “amazing” or “incredible,” leaving “outta sight” to fade into obscurity.
“Can You Dig It?”
Asking someone if they “dig” something was a common way to check if they understood or agreed. The phrase had a cool, laid-back vibe that fit the hippie culture of the ’60s perfectly.
Today, however, it feels outdated and more like a joke than a serious question. Younger generations are more likely to ask “Do you get it?” or “Are you into it?” instead of pulling out this retro phrase.
“Freak Out”
Back in the ’60s, “freak out” was tied to high-energy reactions, whether from excitement, fear, or shock. It had a playful and dramatic flair that suited the counterculture movement. Over time, though, the phrase has lost some of its appeal, as newer ways to describe extreme reactions have taken its place.
Younger people might still use it occasionally, but it’s more likely to sound ironic than sincere.
“Flip Your Wig”
This quirky saying was a fun way to describe someone getting really excited or shocked about something. It had a lighthearted and almost cartoonish feel that matched the slang of the era. Younger generations, however, rarely understand or use it, finding it too obscure and overly dramatic. Phrases like “blow your mind” or “freak out” have taken over, making this one a forgotten relic.
“Cool Cat”
Calling someone a “cool cat” was one of the highest compliments you could give in the 1960s. It meant they had effortless style and charisma, often tied to jazz culture. These days, though, it feels out of step with how people talk. Younger people prefer more modern compliments like “icon” or “legend,” leaving “cool cat” as a term that feels stuck in the past.
“Drop Out”
The phrase “turn on, tune in, drop out” became a popular mantra during the ’60s counterculture movement, urging people to reject mainstream society. While it had a rebellious charm back then, today’s generations see it as impractical or overly dramatic. They focus more on finding balance rather than rejecting the system entirely, making “drop out” feel like advice from a bygone era.
“Flower Power”
This iconic slogan of the 1960s symbolized peace, love, and the rejection of war. While it was a powerful rallying cry for the hippie movement, younger generations find it overly idealistic or even a bit cringe-worthy.
The phrase has been reduced to a cliché, often associated with tie-dye shirts and peace signs rather than meaningful activism.
“Turned On”
In the ’60s, being “turned on” often referred to enlightenment, creativity, or excitement, not just physical attraction. It was tied to the idea of awakening to new possibilities or experiences. Younger generations, however, hear the phrase and associate it with awkward, outdated innuendos.
Words like “inspired” or “energized” have replaced it in modern conversations.
“Heavy”
Calling something “heavy” in the ’60s wasn’t just about weight—it meant it was serious, intense, or meaningful. The phrase was often used to describe deep thoughts or emotional experiences. Today, though, it sounds overly dramatic to younger people, who are more likely to say “intense” or “deep” instead. It’s another phrase that feels stuck in the past.
“Bummer”
“Bummer” was a go-to way to express disappointment or sympathy in the ’60s. It had a casual, relatable feel that fit the laid-back culture of the time. While it’s still occasionally used, younger generations often find it too simplistic or even ironic when they hear it.
Phrases like “that sucks” or “what a letdown” have taken its place in everyday speech.
“Catch You on the Flip Side”
This playful way of saying goodbye was tied to the era’s obsession with records and radio, referring to flipping a record over to play the other side. While it was clever at the time, younger generations rarely understand the reference, and it feels outdated in a world dominated by digital music. Simple goodbyes or “see you later” have made this phrase almost completely obsolete.