Boomers: Ditch These Cringe-Worthy Sayings If You Want to Sound Younger
Language evolves, and nothing dates a person faster than using outdated or overused phrases. Many Baby Boomers have caught on, ditching expressions that scream “out of touch” to sound more in step with younger generations.
Whether in conversation or online, avoiding these phrases helps them stay relatable and avoid cringe-worthy moments. Here are 14 common sayings that make Boomers sound old—and why those in the know avoid them altogether.
“In My Day…”
This phrase instantly sets up a generational divide. When Boomers say “in my day,” it suggests a longing for the past and implies that today’s world doesn’t measure up.
Younger listeners often find it dismissive or irrelevant. Instead of comparing eras, Boomers can share their experiences without framing them as inherently superior.
“What’s the Wi-Fi Password?”
Asking for Wi-Fi in this way feels outdated and clunky. Tech-savvy people usually connect automatically or check for a visible network name.
Boomers can avoid sounding out of touch by simply asking if there’s a guest network or saying, “Do you have Wi-Fi available?” It’s a small change but signals awareness of modern norms.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
“Back in the Good Old Days…”
This phrase assumes the past was better than today. For younger generations, this expression can come across as condescending or tone-deaf.
The “good old days” weren’t universally good for everyone, and such comments can alienate people. Sharing a fond memory without idealizing the past is more inclusive.
“Can You Help Me With My Smartphone?”
Over-reliance on younger people for tech help gets old fast. While there’s nothing wrong with asking for assistance, repeatedly highlighting a struggle with technology can make Boomers seem unwilling to learn.
Taking a few minutes to look up tutorials or practice independently goes a long way in appearing modern and capable.
“Kids These Days Don’t Understand…”
Generational stereotyping feels tired and unproductive. Blanket statements like this paint all young people as clueless or spoiled.
Not only is it unfair, but it also shuts down meaningful conversations. Instead, Boomers can focus on the values and interests they share with younger generations.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
“I Can’t Keep Up With All This Newfangled Technology.”
Complaining about tech advancements sounds stuck in the past. Comments like these signal resistance to change and can make Boomers seem outdated.
Embracing a growth mindset by showing curiosity instead of frustration makes a more positive impression.
“My Generation Had Real Music.”
Music taste is subjective, not universal. Every generation loves the music they grew up with, but dismissing current genres as inferior can feel snobbish.
Boomers who want to stay relatable might find value in appreciating new sounds—or at least respecting others’ tastes.
“You’re Too Young to Understand.”
Age-based dismissals shut down conversations. This phrase minimizes younger people’s experiences and perspectives, making it harder to connect.
Boomers can engage by explaining their viewpoint without implying others lack wisdom or insight.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
“I Don’t Do Social Media.”
Rejecting social media outright feels disconnected in today’s world. Even if someone doesn’t use every platform, dismissing all social media as pointless or harmful can make them seem out of touch.
Acknowledging its role in modern communication, even while setting personal boundaries, shows a balanced perspective.
“What Is This TikTok Thing Anyway?”
Expressing ignorance about popular platforms highlights a generation gap. While it’s fine not to use TikTok or similar apps, openly dismissing them can come across as willfully uninformed.
Boomers can instead ask curious questions or show an interest in learning about trends without sounding dismissive.
“Why Don’t People Just Pick Up the Phone?”
Criticizing texting preferences feels out of sync. Younger generations often prefer texting over calling for convenience and efficiency.
Instead of questioning this norm, Boomers can adapt by embracing texting as an additional way to connect.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
“You’ll Understand When You’re Older.”
This phrase feels patronizing to younger people. It implies that only age brings wisdom, dismissing the valid experiences of younger individuals.
Instead of making assumptions, Boomers can share insights without belittling others’ perspectives.
“That’s Not How We Did Things.”
Rejecting new methods signals resistance to progress. Workplaces and social norms evolve over time, and clinging to “the old way” can make Boomers seem inflexible.
Being open to change and acknowledging its benefits fosters better relationships across generations.
“I’m Too Old for That.”
Age shouldn’t be an excuse to disengage. Comments like this suggest a reluctance to try new things, which can alienate others.
Boomers who embrace challenges and step outside their comfort zones often find that age is just a number.
More from IEPMommy
- Younger Workers Refuse to Follow These 15 Outdated Office Rules
- Stop Saying These 18 Overused Phrases That Drive People Up the Wall
- The Harsh Realities Boomers Lived That Millennials Didn’t Have to Face
- 17 Things Kids Had to Follow in the 70s That Sound Unreal Today
- 19 Old-Fashioned Beliefs That Boomers Cling to but Are Harmful Today
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
