What does this slang term mean?

Find definitions, authentic UK slang origins, meanings, and contextual sentence examples on Streetionary.

Basic Meaning - Streetionary

Basic (adjective / US Slang)

(Also heard as: So basic, Basic girl, Basic behaviour)

Definition:

Basic is slang for someone or something that follows mainstream trends too closely and lacks individuality. It suggests being predictable, unoriginal and a bit boring.

Where Basic Comes From:

The sense of “basic” as an insult grew out of Black American and hip-hop slang in the 2000s and went mainstream in the early 2010s, helped by the stereotype of the “basic girl” who loves pumpkin spice lattes and the same trendy brands as everyone else.

How People Actually Use Basic:

People use it to tease taste and habits: “that’s so basic” about a popular drink, outfit or opinion. It is often used jokingly among friends, but can sting when used seriously, especially about someone’s choices.

Is Basic Rude?

It can be. It is a mild put-down, and the “basic girl” label has been criticised as sexist and dismissive of women’s interests. It works best as a joke between friends.

Examples in the Wild:

“Pumpkin spice latte again? So basic.”
Meaning: That is an unoriginal, very popular choice.
“I’m not basic, I just like the classics.”
Meaning: I like popular things, but I do not think that makes me boring.
“That’s a pretty basic take.”
Meaning: That opinion is predictable and not very original.