80s way of saying what’s going on – “80s Way of Saying What’s Going On?” takes you back to a time of big hair, neon colors, and a unique way of expressing what’s happening. This era saw a distinct evolution in slang, idioms, and cultural references that defined the way people communicated.
From iconic catchphrases in popular music to the slang used on the streets, this exploration delves into the linguistic tapestry of the 1980s, revealing how language reflected the cultural trends and social dynamics of the time.
The 1980s was a time of significant cultural shifts, and these changes were reflected in the language of the day. From the rise of MTV and the popularity of hip-hop to the emergence of new technologies, the 80s saw a generation grappling with a rapidly changing world.
The way people spoke and the words they used became a reflection of these shifts, creating a unique linguistic landscape that continues to resonate today.
Slang and Colloquialisms
The 1980s was a decade of cultural upheaval and change, and this was reflected in the slang and colloquialisms that emerged during this time. Phrases used to express “what’s going on” were particularly dynamic, capturing the spirit of the era.
Examples of 1980s Slang for “What’s Going On”
These phrases reflected the youthful energy, pop culture influence, and casual attitude prevalent in the 1980s.
- What’s up?: This was a common greeting, often used as a casual way to ask “What’s happening?” or “How are you doing?”
- What’s the 411?: This phrase, short for “What’s the information?”, was used to inquire about the latest news or gossip.
- What’s happening?: A direct and straightforward way to ask about someone’s current activities or situation.
- What’s crackin’?: This slang term, often used by young people, was a playful and informal way to ask “What’s new?”
- What’s the scoop?: Similar to “What’s the 411?”, this phrase inquired about the latest news or gossip.
- What’s the buzz?: This phrase, referring to the “buzz” or excitement surrounding a particular event or topic, was used to ask about the latest trends or happenings.
Cultural Context and Impact, 80s way of saying what’s going on
The use of these slang terms was influenced by several cultural trends of the 1980s:
- Youth Culture: The 1980s saw a rise in youth culture, with teenagers and young adults becoming increasingly influential in shaping popular trends. Slang terms like “What’s crackin’?” and “What’s the 411?” reflected this youthful energy and informality.
- Pop Culture: Music, movies, and television played a significant role in shaping the language of the 1980s. Phrases like “What’s up?” and “What’s happening?” were popularized by musicians and actors, making their way into everyday conversations.
- Casual Attitude: The 1980s was a decade of relaxed social norms and a more casual approach to communication. Slang terms like “What’s the scoop?” and “What’s the buzz?” reflected this informal and laid-back attitude.
Examples in Popular Culture
These phrases were widely used in popular music, movies, and television shows of the 1980s:
- Music: The song “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes (1992) is a prime example of the phrase’s popularity in popular music. The song’s lyrics are a direct reflection of the phrase’s casual and friendly tone.
- Movies: The phrase “What’s up?” was frequently used in popular movies of the 1980s, such as “The Breakfast Club” (1985) and “Back to the Future” (1985), reflecting the casual and relatable nature of the phrase.
- Television: The popular 1980s television series “The Cosby Show” (1984-1992) often featured characters using slang terms like “What’s happening?” and “What’s the scoop?”, showcasing the prevalence of these phrases in everyday conversations.
Idioms and Expressions
The 1980s were a vibrant era marked by unique slang and expressions that reflected the cultural zeitgeist. One common theme was the desire to stay in the loop, to know what was happening. This led to the development of various idioms and expressions that conveyed the meaning of “what’s going on.”These idioms were not simply casual phrases; they encapsulated the spirit of the decade, its social trends, and its fascination with pop culture.
They were used in everyday conversations, in written media, and even in popular music and television shows, adding a distinctive flavor to the era’s communication.
Expressions of Curiosity and Awareness
The 1980s saw the rise of a culture that valued being “in the know.” This was reflected in the use of idioms that expressed curiosity and a desire to stay informed.
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- “What’s the 4-1-1?”: This expression, popularized by the 1980s, was a slang way of asking “What’s happening?” or “What’s the latest news?” It originated from the “411” information directory service, which provided phone numbers and addresses. The expression captured the era’s focus on information and connectivity.
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- “What’s the scoop?”: This expression, similar to “What’s the 4-1-1?”, was another way of asking for the latest news or gossip. It was used in a casual and friendly way, often among friends or peers.
- “What’s the buzz?”: This expression, similar to “What’s the scoop?”, was another way of asking for the latest news or gossip. It was used in a casual and friendly way, often among friends or peers.
Popular Culture References: 80s Way Of Saying What’s Going On
The phrase “what’s going on” transcended its everyday usage and became deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the 1980s. It permeated music, movies, television, and other forms of entertainment, reflecting the social and cultural landscape of the era.
Music
The phrase “what’s going on” found its way into numerous popular songs of the 1980s. This was often used in a direct and literal sense, reflecting the spirit of the time.
- “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye (1971):Although released before the 1980s, this iconic song continued to resonate throughout the decade, becoming a powerful anthem for social change and a timeless expression of questioning the status quo. The song’s title and lyrics directly addressed the prevailing social and political issues of the time, resonating with a generation grappling with complex societal challenges.
- “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes (1992):While technically released in the early 1990s, this song’s popularity soared in the latter half of the decade, and its catchy chorus became a ubiquitous phrase. It embodied the spirit of questioning and seeking understanding in a world that often felt chaotic and uncertain.
The song’s simple yet powerful message resonated with listeners, becoming a relatable anthem for navigating the complexities of life.
- “What’s Going On” by The Cure (1981):This song by The Cure delved into the anxieties and uncertainties of youth, reflecting the introspective nature of the 1980s. The song’s title and lyrics directly addressed the prevailing anxieties and uncertainties of the time, resonating with a generation grappling with complex societal challenges.
Evolution of Language
The phrase “what’s going on” has been a staple of English conversation for decades, its meaning and usage evolving alongside cultural shifts and technological advancements. While its core meaning remains the same – to inquire about current happenings – the way it’s used and perceived has changed significantly, reflecting the dynamic nature of language.
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Changes in Meaning and Usage
The evolution of “what’s going on” can be traced through its usage in different contexts. In the 1980s, the phrase often carried a casual and friendly tone, used as a greeting or a way to initiate conversation. It was often accompanied by a sense of curiosity and a desire to connect with others.
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“Hey, what’s going on, man? Catch the game last night?”
Today, “what’s going on” can still be used in this way, but it has also become a more formal and professional greeting, particularly in business settings. It can be used to start a meeting, open a phone call, or simply acknowledge someone’s presence.
“Good morning, everyone. What’s going on today?”
The phrase has also become more prevalent in online communication, particularly in social media. Here, it’s often used as a shorthand way of asking for updates or news, or to express interest in what others are doing.
“What’s going on in the world today?”
Factors Contributing to Language Evolution
Several factors have contributed to the evolution of “what’s going on,” including:
- Technological Advancements:The rise of the internet and social media has led to new forms of communication, where brevity and informality are often valued. This has influenced the way we use language, including the phrase “what’s going on.”
- Cultural Shifts:Cultural changes, such as the increasing pace of life and the growing importance of work-life balance, have also impacted language usage. The phrase “what’s going on” has become a more efficient way to convey information and maintain connections in a busy world.
- Generational Differences:Each generation has its own unique language and communication styles. Younger generations, who have grown up with technology and social media, tend to use language differently than older generations. This can lead to variations in the meaning and usage of phrases like “what’s going on.”
Final Review
The 1980s, with its vibrant culture and iconic music, left an indelible mark on language. While some of the slang and expressions of the era may seem dated today, they provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultural landscape of the time.
The way people communicated, the phrases they used, and the cultural references they shared, all contribute to a rich tapestry of language that reflects the spirit of the decade. So, the next time you hear someone say “Totally tubular” or “Rad,” take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the 80s and its unique way of saying “What’s going on?”
FAQ Section
What are some examples of slang terms used in the 1980s?
Some popular slang terms included “awesome,” “rad,” “totally,” “groovy,” “wicked,” “bogus,” “gnarly,” and “bitchin’.”
How did the use of “what’s going on” differ in the 1980s compared to today?
In the 1980s, “what’s going on” was often used as a general greeting or a way to initiate conversation. Today, it’s more commonly used to inquire about someone’s current activities or to express interest in what’s happening around them.
What are some examples of idioms used in the 1980s?
Popular idioms included “going bananas,” “couch potato,” “piece of cake,” “the real deal,” and “back to the drawing board.”
