As a parent, you might have heard your child exclaim something like, “This food is bussin’!”
Have you ever found yourself perplexed about what these symbols signify?
Slang changes quickly, and keeping up can be challenging.
Don't fret--you aren't alone in this!
Let's examine what "bussin'" actually entails and its definition in today's parlance.
Origin of "Bussin'"
It is believed that the term "bussin" originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE).
Kelly Elizabeth Wright, a postdoctoral research fellow in language sciences at Virginia Tech, states that bussin' is part of AAVE and became popular around March 2021.
TikTok was responsible for this surge in popularity.
This word's roots lie in "buss," an historical term for anything impressive or exciting.
TikTok users immediately responded positively when food blogger Janelle Rohner uploaded a video featuring it, with one commenter writing, "Wow. That looks delicious Janelle. Are we talking bussin?". This spread rapidly across TikTok as word spread about its benefits.
Wright notes that initially the term was used to refer to food.
However, its usage quickly spread to cover anything considered to be of great pleasure or enjoyment.
Over time, it began being used in broader contexts, such as describing outfits, experiences, or even people.
This broader usage led to some controversy, particularly within the Black community.
As the word's meaning expanded beyond its original context, it sparked discussions about cultural appropriation and the dilution of its original meaning.
@janellerohner Snackin....and the answer to the most asked question... video inspo: @_ms_frost_ #keto #bussin #mukbang #foodtiktok ♬ Buss It - Erica Banks
What Does 'Bussin' Mean?
In modern slang, "bussin" refers to anything which is exceptionally delicious or outstandingly rewarding.
Your child might exclaim, "This pizza is bussin," meaning they found it absolutely delectable and absolutely recommend it!
Food waste is commonly known by its acronym, FOB.
However, the phrase can also refer to anything exceptional or engaging.
Here are a few examples of its uses:
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Food: “Mom, this spaghetti is bussin’! Can I have seconds?”
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Experiences: “The concert last night was bussin’! Best night ever!”
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Objects: “These new sneakers are bussin’! Everyone at school loved them.”
Read more: What’s the Buzz? Understanding the ‘Sigma’ Phenomenon in Teens
Why Are Kids Using It?
Slang provides young people a platform to express themselves creatively while forging their identity.
Helping them distinguish themselves from previous generations is key.
Use of terms such as "bussin'" can help children and teenagers feel connected with their peers.
Staying aware of current cultural trends also plays a part in their education.
Communication and expression of themselves uniquely resonates with their generation.
The Cultural Impact and Evolution
Bussin' is one of the AAVE slang terms which has seen rapid and widespread adoption into mainstream culture.
Due to widespread adoption, terms may become distorted or confused over time.
Wright notes that African American English has long been a significant source of new words in American English.
These terms become widespread over time and often lose any connection to their cultural roots.
Detaching can result in wider--and sometimes contentious--use.
While children love anything "bussin," not all parents share this enthusiasm.
Preply's research showed that 21% of parents don't care much for this word.
51% of parents admitted they didn't understand what "iMessage" meant before their children began using it.
Parents often feel confused and incomprehensive when discussing specific terms that cause children harm, leading them to dislike it or become frustrated by its use.
Should You Use 'Bussin'?
While it might be tempting to join in the fun by adopting current slang terms for bonding purposes with your kids, remember that such terminology can quickly become outdated over time.
Bussin' can add flair and draw the eye, but overuse could backfire and cost you credibility.
Feel free to use it when appropriate, but don't be surprised if your kids giggle or roll their eyes.
Conclusion
Understanding popular phrases such as "bussin'" can be useful in breaking down generational barriers.
Maintaining communication between you and your children can keep everyone feeling closer.
Understanding what "yummy" means and its usage can make communicating with your children much simpler.
Bring some humor and lighten up the conversation! It could make things much more entertaining.
Next time you prepare a dish in your home kitchen, don't be taken aback when people say things like, "This is bussin!" as a compliment!
