From 'Sztos' to 'Wixy': 14 Polish Gen Z Slang Words You Need in Your Vocab

Polish Slang 101: Gen Z Edition – 14 Must-Know Phrases to Level Up Your Polish Game

Think you’re fluent in Polish because you can say “cześć” and “dziękuję”? Hold up! Polish Gen Z has a whole new vibe when it comes to slang, and you’re going to want to catch up if you want to fit in with the cool crowds. From casual convos to TikTok trends, the youth of Poland have created their own fresh lingo that’s all about humor, attitude, and simplicity.

Ready to talk like a true Warsaw native? In this guide, we’re breaking down 14 essential Polish Gen Z slang words that’ll help you level up your vocab instantly. Whether you’re chatting with friends or trying to keep up with the latest memes, these phrases will keep you in the know. Let’s dive into the language wave of Poland’s Gen Z!

1. "Sztos"

If something’s sztos, it's amazing or awesome. This is the perfect slang to describe something that completely blew your mind—like a concert, a movie, or even someone’s outfit. Polish Gen Z uses sztos when something is top-tier and unforgettable.

Pronunciation: “Shtoss” (sounds like "sh-toss")
How to use it: "That party was amazing!"
In short: When something is incredible or next-level, just say sztos.

2. "Masakra"

Masakra is one of those words that can go either way. It literally means “massacre,” but Polish Gen Z uses it to describe anything shocking, overwhelming, or intense. It could be bad or good—it all depends on how you use it.

Pronunciation: “Ma-sa-kra” (sounds like “mah-sah-krah”)
How to use it: "That exam was a total nightmare."
In short: Use masakra to describe something intense or wild, whether good or bad.

3. "Bekowy"

If something’s bekowy, it’s hilarious. This word is all about humor—use it to talk about anything that makes you laugh out loud. Polish Gen Z loves using bekowy to describe funny moments, memes, or even people who have a great sense of humor.

Pronunciation: “Beh-ko-vee” (sounds like "beh-koh-vee")
How to use it: "That meme is so funny!"
In short: For anything that’s laugh-out-loud funny, bekowy is the word.

4. "Dymy"

Dymy literally means “smoke,” but it’s used to describe drama or conflict. When there’s drama going down or tensions are high, Polish Gen Z calls it dymy. Whether it's a heated argument or gossip, this slang captures all the chaos.

Pronunciation: “Dih-mee” (sounds like “dih-mee”)
How to use it: "There was so much drama at that party last night."
In short: Use dymy when things get heated, chaotic, or full of drama.

5. "Janusz"

A Janusz is the stereotypical middle-aged, out-of-touch Polish man who’s stuck in his ways. It’s often used jokingly or as a roast to describe someone being old-fashioned or clueless in modern situations. Polish Gen Z loves using this word for playful teasing.

Pronunciation: “Ya-noosh” (sounds like "yah-noosh")
How to use it: "He’s acting like such a boomer today."
In short: For anyone who’s being outdated or cringey, call them Janusz.

6. "Ziom"

Ziom is the Polish version of “bro” or “dude.” It’s a casual, friendly way to refer to your friends. You’ll hear Polish Gen Z saying ziom all the time when they’re hanging out or talking about their besties.

Pronunciation: “Zee-om” (sounds like "zee-om")
How to use it: "What’s up, bro?"
In short: Use ziom to casually refer to your friends, like “dude” or “bro.”

7. "Wixy"

Wixy is all about partying. If you’re talking about a wild night out, a house party, or even a rave, wixy is the word Polish Gen Z uses to describe that kind of vibe. It’s the perfect slang for any party scene.

Pronunciation: “Vee-ksee” (sounds like “vee-ksee”)
How to use it: "That was such a crazy party last night."
In short: When talking about a wild, fun party, use wixy.

8. "Ogarniać"

Ogarniać means to “get it together” or “handle it.” It’s used when someone needs to focus, understand something, or get a situation under control. Polish Gen Z often uses this word when encouraging someone to pull it together or get a grip.

Pronunciation: “Oh-gahr-nee-ach” (sounds like "oh-gahr-nee-ach")
How to use it: "You need to get it together before the exam."
In short: Use ogarniać when someone needs to pull themselves together or handle things.

9. "Spoko"

This is a chill way to say “cool” or “it’s all good.” Spoko is used in everyday conversation to express that something is fine or laid-back. Polish Gen Z uses it casually in lots of situations, whether they’re approving of something or just telling someone to relax.

Pronunciation: “Spo-koh” (sounds like "spoh-koh")
How to use it: "Don’t worry, it’s all good."
In short: When you want to say “cool” or “no worries,” just say spoko.

10. "Propsy"

Propsy is borrowed from English, meaning “props” or “respect.” It’s a way of giving someone credit or acknowledging that they did something well. Polish Gen Z uses propsy to shout out friends or people they admire for their achievements.

Pronunciation: “Pro-psee” (sounds like "pro-psee")
How to use it: "Respect for handling that situation so well!"
In short: Give credit or respect to someone by saying propsy.

11. "Zajebisty"

If something is zajebisty, it’s super cool or awesome. This word is used to hype up something impressive, whether it’s a concert, outfit, or experience. Polish Gen Z uses this slang when something really stands out in a positive way.

Pronunciation: “Zah-yeh-bee-stee” (sounds like "zah-yeh-bee-stee")
How to use it: "That new song is so awesome!"
In short: Use zajebisty when something is seriously cool or amazing.

12. "Luzik"

Luzik is all about staying relaxed and laid-back. It’s used to tell someone to calm down or when everything’s under control. Polish Gen Z loves using this word when they want to keep things chill.

Pronunciation: “Loo-zeek” (sounds like "loo-zeek")
How to use it: "Don’t stress, it’s all under control."
In short: Use luzik to tell someone to relax or to say that everything’s fine.

13. "Szybko"

This word means “quickly” or “fast,” but Polish Gen Z often uses it in casual situations when they want someone to hurry up or get things done faster. It’s a simple but commonly used word to keep the pace moving.

Pronunciation: “Shihb-koh” (sounds like "shihb-koh")
How to use it: "Hurry up, we’re going to be late!"
In short: Use szybko when you need to move quickly or make someone hurry.

14. "Jazda"

Jazda means “let’s go” or “let’s do it,” and it’s often used to hype up a group or get everyone energized before something exciting. Whether you’re about to hit the club or go on an adventure, jazda is the perfect word to get everyone in gear.

Pronunciation: “Yahz-dah” (sounds like "yahz-dah")
How to use it: "Let’s go, the concert is starting soon!"
In short: Use jazda to rally the squad and get things moving.

Now that you know these 14 Polish Gen Z slang words, you’re ready to speak like a true local! Whether you’re hanging out with friends in Warsaw or scrolling through Polish TikTok, these phrases will help you fit right in with the younger crowd. From calling something sztos when it’s awesome to telling your friend to chill with luzik, you’ll have no problem navigating Polish slang. Go ahead and give them a try—you’ll sound like a native in no time!

Stay tuned for more global slang guides and cultural deep dives at Woke Waves Magazine, your ultimate guide to Gen Z trends!

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