Bogus (adjective / US Slang)
(Also heard as: Totally bogus, Bogus move, That’s bogus)
Definition:
Bogus means fake, unfair or disappointing. People say “that’s bogus” when something seems wrong or not right.
Where Bogus Comes From:
It started in 19th-century America as a word for counterfeit money. By the 1980s it was Californian teen slang for anything lame or unfair, and films like Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey made it famous.
How People Actually Use Bogus:
Used for something unfair or fake: “a bogus call”, “bogus excuse”. It now sounds retro and often a bit playful.
Is Bogus Rude?
Not rude. It is mild and casual.
Examples in the Wild:
- “That referee call was totally bogus.”Meaning: That decision was unfair.
- “He gave me a bogus excuse.”Meaning: He gave me a fake excuse.
- “Cancelling at the last minute is bogus.”Meaning: Cancelling at the last minute is not fair.
Similar Slang:
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