All slang on social media has a backstory; it’s how a word was transformed into an addition to the language. Like most internet slang terms, ‘Flex’ has a backstory. As with most internet slang, ‘Flex” has a story.
Initially, ‘flexing’ was about the body. In the modern age, the internet has broken down the barrier of stereotypical usage behind the term and is now allowing people to use it to express any part they want. The transition is amazing.
In the present, internet ‘flexes’ are not just gym jargon. They can be any form of public celebration, whether or not it concerns achievement. Depending on the intent and emotion of flaunting, ‘flexing’ can have a different meaning.
Flex-based Social Media: Instagram & FB: What’s the meaning?
In African-American Vernacular English, it was invented as a way to brag. When used in social media, it is used to describe the act of boasting about one’s accomplishments, abilities, or possessions. It involves posting content and posts that showcase one’s success, wealth, appearance, or other forms of superiority. The main intention is to receive recognition, appreciation, or approval from your audience, especially on Instagram and Facebook. It is a way to promote yourself.
In many different situations, the word Flex is used. You could post pictures of expensive designer clothes and a lavish vacation to demonstrate wealth. Others may showcase their workouts or bodies. In essence, it’s an attempt to be proud or incite someone.
As it creates unrealistic expectations and feelings of inferiority, flexing often leads to a culture of materialism.
But it’s important to note that this creates an unrealistic portrayal. That leads to comparisons and feelings like the FOMO, or fear of missing out, for those with fewer resources.
Flex on Social Media – How To Use It?
The impact of flexing is both positive and negative. Within limits, flexing may be an inspirational and motivating tool. A lot of bragging can appear arrogant and inauthentic. Sometimes, it may be attention-seeking.
It is possible to use the slang expression in three distinct ways, for example, if you want to talk about a genuine or fake show-off.
Genuine Flex: LinkedIn offers the best examples of natural flexibility, with everyone actively highlighting their abilities, skills, and achievements. A valid showcase of both personal and professional achievements. This is more of a rooting-for-the-person than mocking.
It’s great that you’ve chosen me as the leader representative of XYZ.
False Flexing: This type of flexing does not have a positive aspect. This is when a person falsely praises or celebrates something that was not achieved. It is a way to manipulate the public’s perception and build a false reputation.
With just one trick, I could have bought my very first luxury vehicle at 18 years old. I will show you how to achieve your car dream.
It focuses on practical ways to apply awkward Flex. While Flex is a great tool, it must also be used in a way that’s appropriate and unnecessary.
You can say for example, He said that he could not check the message because he painted his ex’s apartment. But it was a funny flex!
Take a look at the following for more information.
Social media slang for Flex and the parts of speech that it contains are synonyms with showing off. It can be an upbeat show, a negative one, a fake, or something that is just weird. It is one person’s bragging and the other’s response.
Slang that originated in gyms is now used for anything someone puts effort into. A person can be good at something or improve at it.