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Gen Z Slang: Out of Pocket Meaning

What does the term "out of pocket" mean? How is it used in conversation? Find out with Family Education and learn Gen Z slang today!
Gen Z slang
Updated: July 23, 2024
Table of contents

"Out of pocket" in Gen Z slang typically means acting in a way that is inappropriate, unexpected, or unacceptable. It can also be used to describe someone who is behaving erratically or wildly.

"Out of Pocket" Origins

The phrase "out of pocket" originally comes from the financial world, where it referred to expenses paid directly by an individual. Over time, its meaning evolved in different contexts, and among Gen Z, it has taken on a completely new connotation of bizarre or outrageous behavior.

Examples of Use for "Out of Pocket"

The following are some ways people might use this term in conversation or messaging:

  • "Did you see what Sarah posted last night? That was so out of pocket!"
  • "I can’t believe he said that in class; he was really out of pocket.”
  • "Their behavior at the party was totally out of pocket."

Incorporating "Out of pocket" Into Your Vocabulary

How can parents use this term in daily life? Here are some tips!

  1. Describing Unexpected Behavior: When someone behaves in an unpredictable or unacceptable manner, you can say, "His remarks were totally out of pocket."
  2. Expressing Unavailability: If you're unavailable or unreachable for a period of time, you might tell your family, "I'll be out of pocket this afternoon, so I might not respond immediately."
  3. Referring to Expenses: When you pay for something personally, you could say, "I had to pay for the repair out of pocket."

Is "Out of Pocket" Positive or Negative?

"Out of pocket" generally carries a negative connotation. It is used to call attention to behavior that is out of the ordinary in a disruptive or unacceptable way, highlighting either a lapse in judgment or inappropriate actions.

Tara Gunn

About Tara

Hailing from Canada, Tara is a graduate of Scotland's University of St. Andrews in creative… Read more

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