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"It's Giving": Definition, Origin, and Impact

Updated on October 2, 2024
Image of author Pragya

By Pragya, Posted

"It's Giving": Definition, Origin, and Impact

Table of content

What is "It's Giving"?

"It's Giving" is a trendy slang phrase that has taken social media by storm. This versatile expression is used to describe the vibe, impression, or essence that a person, situation, or thing exudes. Essentially, it's a way to articulate the overall feeling or atmosphere that something conveys.

For example, if someone posts a photo of themselves in a sleek, all-black outfit, a friend might comment, "It's giving Matrix vibes!" This means the outfit reminds them of the iconic style from the Matrix movies.

Origin and Development of "It's Giving"

The phrase "It's Giving" has its roots in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and the LGBTQ+ ballroom culture. The ballroom scene, which gained prominence in New York City during the 1980s, is known for its elaborate performances and competitions. In this subculture, phrases like "It's giving face" or "It's giving body" were commonly used to describe participants who exuded confidence and charisma during their performances.

Over time, the phrase evolved and spread beyond its original context. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok played a crucial role in popularizing "It's Giving" among younger generations and those interested in pop culture, fashion, and entertainment.

How "It's Giving" Works

The phrase "It's Giving" is typically followed by a noun or adjective that describes the impression being conveyed. It's a flexible expression that can be used in various contexts:

  1. Fashion: "That outfit is giving Y2K realness!"
  2. Behavior: "His attitude is giving main character energy."
  3. Atmosphere: "This party is giving summer of '69 vibes."
  4. Emotions: "This movie is giving all the feels."

The beauty of "It's Giving" lies in its adaptability and the creative ways people use it to express their observations and feelings.

Popular Examples of "It's Giving"

To better understand how "It's Giving" is used in real-life situations, let's look at some popular examples:

  1. "It's giving Beyoncé" - Used to describe someone who exudes confidence and star power.
  2. "It's giving corporate America" - Might be used to describe a very formal or business-like atmosphere.
  3. "It's giving main character energy" - Describes someone who seems to be the center of attention or living their life as if they're the protagonist in a movie.
  4. "It's giving 90s nostalgia" - Could be used to describe fashion, music, or aesthetics reminiscent of the 1990s.

Impact of "It's Giving" on Social Media Culture

The rise of "It's Giving" has had a significant impact on social media culture:

  1. Language Evolution: It showcases how language evolves in the digital age, with phrases quickly spreading across platforms and demographics.

  2. Cultural Exchange: The phrase's journey from AAVE and ballroom culture to mainstream usage highlights the influence of marginalized communities on popular culture.

  3. Creative Expression: "It's Giving" allows users to express their observations and feelings in a concise, creative way, perfect for the fast-paced nature of social media.

  4. Community Building: The phrase has become a sort of in-group marker, creating a sense of shared understanding among those who use it.

How Brands and Influencers Use "It's Giving"

Savvy brands and influencers have caught on to the popularity of "It's Giving" and are incorporating it into their social media strategies:

  1. Brand Voice: Companies use the phrase to appear more relatable and in touch with current trends.

  2. Product Descriptions: Some brands describe their products using "It's Giving" to create a more engaging and contemporary feel.

  3. Content Creation: Influencers often use the phrase in captions or video content to describe their outfits, experiences, or products they're promoting.

  4. Engagement: Brands and influencers encourage followers to use "It's Giving" in the comments, fostering engagement and community interaction.

Future Trends Related to "It's Giving"

As with many internet slang terms, the future of "It's Giving" is hard to predict. However, we can make some educated guesses:

  1. Continued Evolution: The phrase may continue to evolve, with new variations and uses emerging.

  2. Potential Overuse: As with any popular phrase, there's a risk of overuse leading to it feeling cliché or outdated.

  3. Cultural Impact: The phrase may inspire academic studies on language evolution and cultural appropriation in the digital age.

  4. Integration into Marketing: More brands may incorporate "It's Giving" into their marketing strategies, potentially leading to its commercialization.

FAQs about "It's Giving"

  1. Is "It's Giving" grammatically correct? While not standard English, it's a valid expression in certain dialects and internet slang.

  2. Can "It's Giving" be used negatively? Yes, it can be used to describe negative impressions too, e.g., "It's giving desperation."

  3. Is "It's Giving" only used by young people? While it's more common among younger users, people of all ages use it on social media.

  4. Will "It's Giving" become outdated? Like all slang terms, it may eventually fall out of favor, but for now, it remains popular.

  5. Is it appropriate to use "It's Giving" in professional settings? It's best to avoid using slang terms like this in formal or professional contexts unless you're specifically discussing social media trends.

In conclusion, "It's Giving" has become a significant part of social media vernacular, offering users a creative and concise way to express their observations and feelings. As it continues to evolve and shape online communication, it serves as a fascinating example of how language adapts in the digital age.

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