Lowkey / Highkey

Definition:

A contrasting pair of modern slang adverbs where "lowkey" indicates subtlety, secrecy, or mild intensity, while "highkey" expresses openness, obviousness, or strong intensity

Context:

Originally stemming from photography/musical terminology where "low-key" referred to something subtle/subdued and "high-key" meant prominent/intense, these terms gained widespread popularity through social media among Gen-Z & Millennials in 2010 and have since evolved significantly. They're commonly used to express degrees of intensity or publicity, with three main use patterns: traditional (secret vs. public), intensity modification (slightly vs. very), and tone conveyance (passive vs. assertive statements).

"Lowkey" & "Highkey" are extremely versatile and have developed interesting nuances in their usage, including ironic applications where they can be used together for emphasis or humor ("I'm lowkey highkey stressed about this"). They have quickly become the Swiss army knife of modifiers, applicable to almost any statement, thought, or emotion. Sometimes it even functions casually as a mere conversation filler (as in "I lowkey just want some pizza" where "lowkey" doesn't necessarily indicate secrecy or subtlety but rather acts simply as a verbal cushion).

Example:

^{(all names & events in the
following scenario have been made
up)}

Justen: “I lowkey think pineapple belongs on pizza.”

Elyjah: “You're highkey wrong... but you do you.”