TikTok is a breeding ground for internet slang, and the latest term taking over For You Pages is “YNS.” If you’re scratching your head wondering what it means, you’re not alone. This article breaks down the meaning of “YNS,” its usage, and why it’s sparking both amusement and frustration online.
“YNS” stands for “youngins’,” a slang term for young people. While not typically found in formal writing, it has gained significant traction on TikTok as a way to refer to teenagers or young adults. It’s important not to confuse it with “Y/N,” which stands for “Your Name” and is commonly used in fanfiction.
The term “YNS” has ignited a wave of discussions and opinions, with some TikTok users expressing annoyance towards individuals labeled as “YNS”.
One popular TikToker, ‘milesbaguette,’ shared a story about a solo movie trip that turned sour when he found himself surrounded by a group of 16 and 17-year-olds, who he referred to as “YNS.” He recounted feeling “horrified” when the teenagers started laughing at him for being alone. The TikToker felt unable to respond due to their young age.
Another TikTok user, ‘jonathannyc,’ offered his perspective through a skit portraying an Uber driver picking up a group of “YNS.” In the video, the driver is met with rudeness and disrespect, highlighting a negative stereotype associated with the term. The “YNS” character immediately disrespects the driver, reinforcing the perception of them as impolite and entitled.
The staged scenario sparked conversation, with many viewers agreeing that some “YNS” exhibit villainous behavior.
However, not everyone is happy with the “YNS” label. User ‘mbf_dae’ posted a TikTok expressing frustration at being considered a “YNS,” capturing the sentiment of those who feel unfairly categorized by the term. The lyrics “let it all work out” played as he expressed his frustration with the realization that he is considered a YNS.
The comment section reflected similar feelings, with users expressing shared sentiments of disappointment.
Like other slang terms such as “SPWN,” meaning “stop playing with me,” and “MYF,” short for “my fault,” “YNS” reflects the ever-evolving nature of online language and the way social media platforms like TikTok contribute to the creation and spread of new slang. Whether used positively, negatively, or simply descriptively, “YNS” has undeniably become a part of the internet lexicon.
