One of the new Gen Z phrases you hear all the time these days is “low key”. But don’t worry if you don’t already know what it means because this article is going to explain it all…
We’ll start with its meaning, then go into the origin, and then explain how you can use the term through the aid of a few examples. After that we’ll run through some similar words that can often be used in its place.
Let’s get straight to it.
What does “low key” mean in slang?
In slang, “low key” (also written “lowkey”) simply means in a way or to a degree that’s moderate or limited. Or in other words it’s a lot like saying that instead of saying you’re really excited about something that’s coming soon, you’re quietly looking forward to it.
The term expresses a subtle or understated feeling, opinion, or action, sometimes suggesting secrecy or a lack of strong emphasis. It’s the opposite of high key.
What’s the origin of the term “low key”?
Although it’s not known who first coined the slang term “low key”, we do know that it became popularised in hip hop culture and through the context of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in the 2010s.
That said, there has also been some evidence that the phrase has been used in a different context much earlier. For instance, in the early 19th century people used the term to describe something of a low pitch or tone, as in music or speaking softly.
How you can use the term “low key” featuring examples
There are several reasons why people may want to use the expression “low key”, such as to express feelings or opinions subtly, or to downplay something. Or alternatively, simply to keep things understated or private.
For better context and understanding, here follows a few examples of the slang being used in sentences:
- I’m low key loving Eminem’s new album. It’s good but it’s not his first few.
- The marketing has finally come together. I’m low key proud it was hard work to meet those deadlines.
- She’s just doing a soft launch of her professional services, keeping things low key until she has a masterpiece of a product offering.
- Yes, I just heard they made it official, but I could see it coming so I guess I’m just low key pleased for them.
- I’m keeping my latest Facebook account low key. I don’t want my ex seeing it and trying to get in touch or make unwanted comments.
Similar and synonymous words and phrases
There are many words and phrases that can often be used in place of the slang “low key”. Here are some examples:
- Subtly
- Quietly
- Moderately
- Privately
- Secretly
- Subdued
Final word
So, to sum up, the slang term “low key” is the opposite of high key. It conveys something being subtle or understated rather than being overly dramatic or attention-grabbing. As a slang term and verb it came into the mainstream thanks to hip hop culture in the 2010s, although the precise origin is not known.
