As an English teacher, I have been creating content for both Korean learners and global English learners. This blog is where I share the expressions and slang I cover in my lessons — and today’s word is one that sounds simple but has a really interesting meaning: “Lowkey.”
What does “lowkey” mean?
“Lowkey” means secretly, quietly, or a little bit — something you feel or think but don’t want to make a big deal about.
It’s the opposite of “highkey” — which means openly, obviously, or a lot.
Real life examples:
- “I lowkey love this song even though it’s embarrassing to admit.”
- “She’s lowkey the best player on the team.”
- “I’m lowkey stressed about the exam tomorrow.”
- “He lowkey likes her but won’t say it out loud.”
- “That restaurant is lowkey one of the best in the city.”
Lowkey vs Highkey:
- “I’m lowkey tired.” → a little tired, not making a big deal
- “I’m highkey exhausted.” → very tired, openly admitting it
How to use it:
Put “lowkey” before the adjective or verb:
- “I lowkey want to cancel my plans tonight.”
- “This is lowkey the best day ever.”
Where did it come from?
“Lowkey” originally meant keeping something quiet or under the radar. Over time Gen Z turned it into a way of admitting something you feel but don’t want to fully own out loud.
Similar expressions:
- “Kind of / Kinda” — similar meaning, slightly less cool 😄
- “Lowkey obsessed” — secretly really into something
- “Highkey” — the opposite, openly and obviously
Quick recap:
Lowkey = secretly, quietly, a little bit. Use it when you want to admit something without making it a big deal. Very natural, very Gen Z! 🔑
Want to learn more natural English?
Hi, I’m Yehs Sam 👋 I have been teaching English and creating content to help learners sound more natural and confident — for both Korean learners and global English learners.
🐢⚡ Turtle Zeus — Slow but surely, we get there.
Is there a slang word or English expression you’ve always wanted to know? Drop it in the comments below — I’d love to cover it in my next post!