Children have been screamed at by substitute teachers, raging twitter wars have been sparked, generations are feuding— all because of one phrase.

Ok, Boomer.

First, what does the phrase even mean? “Ok, Boomer” originated from generations Y and Z. It was originally created simply as a clever comeback to older generations in response to their commonly referred to as outdated opinions. The phrase is said to be traced back to 2018, but it wasn’t until recently that it was popularized. Many began using the phrase after it was said by young individuals as a reaction to a video of an older man criticizing the ideals and practices of millennials and Generation Z.

“Ok, Boomer” of course has an unmistakably negative connotation. Because of this, many adults have taken extreme offense to the use of the words being directed at them. Some adults have even equated the term to the “N word,” (which seems implausible, since the “N word” is being avoided in this context, while “Ok, Boomer” is being said without hesitation.)  The words were originally meant to be used towards Baby Boomers, hence the word, boomer. However, when the phrase started to gain popularity, it began being directed to nearly all adults above the age of thirty. This has confused many, causing more anger among the recipients of the mocking words.

As tempting as it can be for many young individuals, using “Ok, Boomer,” as a legitimate argument may not precipitate the outcome many hope to gain. Though it may be effective when trying to rattle an opposing side, the phrase in itself does not present any real argument or persuasive value. Many individuals consider the phrase ageist as well, since it implies that someone only has certain views because of their age.

Unfortunately for adults, telling kids to stop saying something won’t make them do it. Coming from a true Gen Z, there may be a way to make the infamous phrase become less prominent among today’s youth, and getting offended by a high school student calling someone a boomer only makes the issue worse. The solution to the hostility between the youth and adults of today’s society actually involves every generation, and it’s quite simple. The real answer is to listen.

Teenagers may not agree with their parents’ views on the president, and adults may not agree with the common young adult view on climate change. While the different generations may not see eye-to-eye on everything, what we can do is simply hear each other out. Many young adults would be far more accepting of an adult simply respecting their differing view-points than agreeing with them without any true respect being given. Just as well, many older individuals feel the same way. So, before shutting down when someone younger or older has different views, try truly listening to them— and who knows, you just might change your mind, too.

Featured image by Ellory Brossette