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What does OG mean? English can be a tricky language. It borrows from so many other languages, and then on top of that, informal English uses a lot of slang. On the internet and in text, more people use informal English than they do formal English. This means there’s a lot of slang in these areas. The slang term addressed in this article is “OG.”
OG Meaning
What Does “OG” Stand For?
“OG” stands for “original gangster”.
It is a phrase that is often used in rap and hip hop culture. This later found its way into the internet and texting culture. The long-form of “OG” is “original gangster.” The meaning of “original gangster” is someone who is from “the old school” or someone who has a depth of knowledge or experience. If new gangsters think they are tough, then “OGs” are many times tougher.
Although “OG ” used to mean “original gangster,” current social media norms dictate that someone who is an “OG” is an original, iconic representative of a specific specialization or achievement. It can be taken to mean “the original,” in short.
Origin and Context of OG
The term “original gangster” is said to have come about in the 1970s. During this time, a Los Angeles street gang known as the crips was quickly expanding. Those who were called “OG” were some of the founding, or “original,” members. As a result, they were called the “original gangsters” or “OGs.”
While the term “gangster” is used in this context, the way it is currently used has little to do with actual gangsters, street gangs, or organized crime.
Now, many use it in general speech or in on-line communication to show that someone is an authority on something or has exceptional skill in a certain area.
Terms Related to OG
- Old-School: Used to describe something or someone that follows traditional methods or values.
- Expert: A person who possesses exceptional skill or knowledge in a particular field.
- Slang: A type of informal language, often consisting of words or phrases used by a specific group of people.
- Abbreviation: A shortened version of a word or phrase, typically used for brevity or convenience.
Remember, when using terms like OG, it’s essential to be aware of the context and the audience you’re addressing. While the phrase has evolved and gained widespread acceptance, some individuals may still associate it with its more negative, gang-related origins. As with any slang term, it’s essential to consider the potential implications before incorporating it into your writing or conversation.
OG Examples in Conversations, Texting, Social Posts
Let’s take a look at some examples in action.
Example 1
Gamer 1: No matter how much I play, I never get any better.
Gamer 2: Have you tried talking with NightStalk3r? He’s an OG on this game.
Gamer 1: I don’t have a chance, he’d never respond to my msg!
In this first example, we can see that two gamers are talking about their skill with regards to a certain video game. Gamer 1 comments that he is playing a lot but is never really gaining skill. Gamer 2 tells him to consult NightStalk3r. Here he uses the term “OG” to show that he is either a very skilled player or someone who has been playing the game for a long time. Either way, Gamer 1 can possibly learn a lot from this “original gangster.”
Example 2
Coworker 1: I want to take a vacation next month but I don’t think the boss will let us.
Coworker 2: Yeah, our supervisor is kinda uptight right now. Why don’t you take it up to the OG?
Coworker 1: Thanks! That’s a great idea. I’ll do that!
This conversation over office messaging software by two employees shows another use for “OG.” Coworker 1 wants to take a vacation but thinks that the company is too busy to let him do so. The current supervisor is strict and will probably deny his request for time off. Coworker 2 gives the suggestion that she should ask the boss of the supervisor. Here, the internet slang term is used as a noun. It means someone who is in a position of authority or has been in the organization for a long time.
Example 3
On social media platforms like Twitter, “OG” is most likely to be used in passing sentences, in declarations, or in bios, as opposed to in full conversations. This is partly because of how social media is set up, with so much of it designed to be one person at a time talking to all their followers, and partly because the term is often used as part of a title or label.
The following are some examples of how “OG” might be used on social media platforms.
- I am the OG beauty expert.
In this context, the person is saying they are one of the first or foremost experts on beauty.
- The new cast isn’t as good as the OG Avengers.
In this case, the person is saying the new cast isn’t as good as the original Avengers.
- He is like the OG badass.
In this context, it’s used a little closer to its original meaning, to imply that someone was the person who established an intimidating role.
All of these uses still basically come down to the same thing, with “OG” being replaceable with “original.”
More About OG Terminology
OG Synonyms
As you explore the world of “original gangster” slang, it’s important to know the various synonyms for OG. While the term itself has become quite popular and widely used, there are other expressions that carry a similar connotation. Here are a few common alternates to OG:
- Original Gangsta: This is a slightly more spelled-out version of OG and holds the same meaning. It is often used in reference to someone who has been part of a gang or street culture for a long time.
- Old-School: While not an exact synonym for OG, “old-school” can be used to describe someone who has been around longer than most and has a solid understanding of a culture or skill. This term is not limited to gang members and can be used for various fields and interests, including music, fashion, and sports.
- Veteran: Another term that isn’t solely reserved for members of street gangs, “veteran” is used to describe someone with extensive experience and knowledge, likely having been a part of something for many years. This term is often used in professional and social settings but can be applied to a member of a gang who has shown loyalty and expertise.
Other Meanings of OG
Aside from “original gangster,” the term “OG” can also mean “old git.” This is a term from the 1940s. It means someone who is an old person kind of cranky, grumpy, or generally unpleasant to be around.
Here is the list of other meanings:
- OutGoing
- Online Gaming
- Old Girl
- Own Goal
- One God
- Organic Gardening
- Old Guy
- Orange Grove
- Original Gravity
- Official Guide
- Organ Grinder
- Offensive Guard
- Old Glory
- Overground
- Opposite Gender
- Olympic Garden
- Overgrow
- Original Guardian
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