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Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
13 Common Phrases People Over 60 Use Without Realizing How Outdated They Sound
13 Common Phrases People Over 60 Use Without Realizing How Outdated They Sound originally appeared on Parade. Language is a wonderfully curious thing—always growing, always shape-shifting. Even when two people are from the same area, the way they use words can feel like different dialects from parallel worlds, especially across generations. For instance, a saying that once sparkled with relevance might now land with a puzzled blink when it's used, quietly revealing the era it came from at the same time. If you're curious what some expressions and sentences might fall into that, keep reading because we're revealing 13 common phrases people over 60 use without realizing how outdated they Dr. Jenny Shields, the founder of Shields Psychology & Consulting and Dr. Patricia Dixon of the podcast Healing Mentalit-Tea helped us round them up. They both not only call out certain phrases, but they also explain what they mean in case you're confused. Beyond decoding their original intent, they take it a step further by offering modern-day equivalents, giving helpful insight into how language has shifted and what expressions people might be using today out all of the outdated phrases below and see if you are guilty of using them, have ever heard them before or know someone who still uses them in their everyday vocab. You may be surprised to find out which ones our experts 'This phrase has been around for centuries—and it sounds like it!' Dr. Shields stresses. 'The message is solid: handle it now before it snowballs. But for younger people hearing it, it can sound like a folksy nudge from someone's great-aunt rather than a helpful reminder.''Today's generation might say something like, 'Nip it in the bud,' which has a similar vibe, but sounds a bit more modern,' Dr. Dixon explains. 'I've always understood this older phrase to mean that fixing a small problem right away can prevent it from turning into a bigger mess later—whether it's in relationships, business or even just keeping your house organized. The idea is that addressing issues early on saves you from having to do nine more stitches down the line.'Related: "If you've never used a pager, this phrase can land as a little out of touch,' Dr. Shields explains.'This outdated phrase basically means, 'Reach out if you need anything,' Dr. Dixon reveals. 'It's a polite way of saying, 'Let me know if I can help.' Nowadays, people might say, 'Hit me up if you need to' or 'Text me if you need me," which are both more casual and more immediate.' Ummm, what?! If you haven't heard this dated expression, Dr. Shields is breaking it down.'This phrase used to be about grit and self-reliance, but today it can come across as dismissive or disconnected,' she tells Parade. 'It assumes everyone starts from the same place, with equal access to support, time and stability.' 'This was a gentle way of saying, 'I'll tentatively schedule you,'' Dr. Dixon says. 'Today, people might say, 'I'll hit you up,' or 'OK, I've got you locked in.' It's all about keeping things flexible but still making sure it happens—just with a little more digital flair.' 'This classic saying used by people 60 or older means that being kind and friendly gets you farther than being sour or aggressive,' Dr. Dixon points out. 'It's about the power of kindness over harshness. Today's slang might include phrases like, 'That's a vibe' or 'Kindness over clout,' focusing on authenticity and positivity over negativity.'Related: 'This phrase used by people over 60 is a straightforward way of saying you've left a message, but let's be honest—answering machines are almost a thing of the past nowadays, which is why this is outdated," Dr. Dixon notes. "Now, we'd say, 'Check your messages' or 'I DM'ed you,' which is way more current and digital-friendly.' 'This outdated phrase has long been used to explain playful or impulsive behavior, often without harm intended,' Dr. Shields shares. 'However, today, with greater awareness around bullying, aggression and consent, it can unintentionally excuse actions that deserve to be taken seriously. Most parents and grandparents want to raise boys who are kind, respectful and accountable. Letting go of this phrase doesn't limit boys. It affirms how much we believe in who they're becoming.'Related: Not sure what this means? That's because "taping" something is pretty much a thing of the past.'This used to be a common way to ask someone to record a TV show on a VCR—back when we actually owned tapes and knew what a VCR was!' Dr. Dixon Shields adds, 'This outdated phrase reminds us how quickly the world has changed. If you're talking with someone younger, updating your wording a bit can help keep them in the moment with you, instead of trying to decode the reference.'Dr. Dixon agrees, telling Parade, 'These days, someone would probably just ask, 'Which streaming service is it on?' instead.' 'This phrase was once a compliment, meant to recognize women who built professional lives outside the home,' Dr. Shields says. 'Though, today it can sound outdated or even patronizing, as if a woman's ambition still needs to be called out or labeled. Younger generations expect women to have full careers, and pointing it out can make it feel exceptional when it's simply normal. It also reduces someone's identity to their job, rather than seeing them as a whole person.' If you're confused by this method of payment, it's because it was more common with other generations. That's why our experts say it's an outdated phrase in today's world.'That was a classic question from a time when writing checks was the norm,' Dr. Dixon states. 'The modern version of that statement would be something like, 'Can I Zelle or Cash App you?' It's much quicker and more digital-friendly.'Related: 'Someone 60 or older might use this as it means splitting the bill, which was the polite way to say 'We're sharing this,'" Dr. Dixon explains. "Today's generation might say, 'Let's split this' or 'Let's go half on this.' It's a little more straightforward and less formal, but just as clear.' This outdated phrase was often meant to express kindness or fairness, with the intent of saying, 'I treat everyone the same.'' Dr. Shields explains. 'However, if used today, for many people of color, it can feel like their identity and lived experience are being erased. The truth is, race often shapes the way people move through the world. What builds trust isn't pretending we're all the same. It's saying, 'I see your difference and I respect it.'' 'This old saying was meant to remind people not to toss out something valuable just because it's mixed in with something difficult,' Dr. Shields notes. 'Today, it can sound a little outdated or even a bit dismissive when someone is voicing frustration or rethinking how things have always been done. The heart of the message still holds, but younger folks might hear it as, 'Don't make a fuss.'' Up Next:Dr. Jenny Shields, psychologist, the founder of Shields Psychology & Consulting Dr. Patricia Dixon, psychologist, of the podcast Healing Mentalit-Tea 13 Common Phrases People Over 60 Use Without Realizing How Outdated They Sound first appeared on Parade on Jun 19, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
People Are Sharing The Most Frustratingly Out-Of-Touch Comments Their Parents Have Made
Warning: This post mentions assault. Ever had a parent say something that made you realize just how much the world has changed since they were your age? You're not alone. Between asking members of the BuzzFeed Community to share the exact comments their parents made that made them realize how differently older generations see adulthood today, and u/Roblson240YT asking about the most out-of-touch thing an older person has said, the responses range from painfully relatable to surprisingly eye-opening. Here are some of the most memorable below: 1."That 'AI art was the same as digital art.' I'm a digital artist, by the way, and I was pretty darn annoyed at that." —anime_otaku66 2."When I was a teenager, my parents kept pressuring me to get a summer job. My dad claimed that it was as easy as going door to door and applying. When I was a junior (11th-year student for non-Americans), my dad lost his job and found no one wanted to hire him — in spite of his decades of work experience. He shut up about that soon afterward." —u/sheikhyerbouti 3."My grandpa's advice was: 'Your grandma probably said no to me 20 times before we went on a date. I made sure I was on her porch every day, knocking to see if she had changed her mind!' Yeah, Pop, I'm pretty sure I'm getting arrested on day two for that." —u/what_the_shart 4."One that stands out to me right now is when my mom — who is full of these — told me not to 'encourage' my son to be gay. She said that it's 'not natural.' Like my kids listen to me anyway! Not to mention that babies are born that way ... or not!" —mushysundae74 5."I was homeless a while ago, and my great-grandfather found out. He gave me $50 and said to rent a motel for a week. My heart completely broke." —u/[deleted] 6."'Why are you renting? Why don't you just buy a house?'" —u/k00lkat666 7."Had dinner with my grandmother last week, and she genuinely asked why I don't just marry a doctor to solve my student loan problems." —u/Naughty-Sweetheart 8."My dad got one of my gay friends blackout drunk one night, hoping (in his words) 'he'd start acting more like a man.' I told him that was BS, and it scared me to think what sort of behavior he wanted to see from my friend." —skimcrab626 9."My grandma (mid-80s) called me greedy and irresponsible for spending $250,000 on a house in 2024 ('affordable' in my area), when she only spent $10,000 on her first house and raised three children in it." —u/msbeesechurger 10."I was a junior in high school. My father and I got into a heated discussion about teen pregnancies, and I was making the case that a teen could choose to have the baby and put it up for adoption. My father blurted, 'Nobody wants someone else's mistake.' I'm adopted." —bittershark754 11."I was never a girly-girl and could never compete with my cute, flirty older sister. My mother was always sure that I knew my sister was the cute one and I was the smart one. My mother couldn't even let me have that either, going so far as to say that my sister could have done as well academically if she had studied. She also told me when I was 15 that no man would ever want me because I was too strong-willed. Well, I got a PhD, had a slammin' career, and more men than I could count. When I got married at 46 (had a brief marriage in my 20s), my mother then said she was relieved because I wouldn't be an old maid. I rolled my eyes and reminded her that I had been married and had a child, and that an old maid I was not." —emoskeleton72 12."Between homes owned after a divorce, I was forced to rent for a year. A single mother, even in a professional job, money was tight in that area of the US. My family had zero empathy that having to pay for a decent apartment ate up almost half my income. I can't remember the comments made 40 years later, but I just remember their smug attitude and cluelessness. Everyone is now gone, and their attitude just became a memory." —visionarybee33 13."My daughter was 2 years old, and my marriage had been going downhill for the entirety of her lifetime. I knew I wanted and needed to get a divorce. I went to talk to my mom about it, telling her how miserable I was and how it was negatively affecting my parenting. She was not understanding at all. In fact, she said to me, 'Don't take that little girl away from her father!' She wouldn't listen to anything I had to say. She said if I went through with the divorce, she wouldn't accept it and would continue to treat him as her son-in-law, as would the rest of the family. In other words, they would choose him over me. She even said she wouldn't help me financially or with any childcare since I broke up the family and created my own hardship. I didn't have the courage to leave him after that, knowing I would lose my family as well. It was the biggest mistake of my life." "The remainder of the marriage was horrible, and my daughter now has anxiety, depression, and an eating disorder." —ivesvanessa293 14."Them: 'Congrats on your $500 scholarship! That should cover one of your two classes this semester!' Me: 'I appreciate it! won't even cover a credit, which is $900. Each class is three credits.' Them: 'Are you serious!?' Cue the surprised Pikachu face." —u/impromptu_dissection 15."I was jumped and assaulted during my junior year of college. While in the hospital, I called my dad, a police officer. His comment to me was, 'Well, what did you do to encourage him?' I still have flashbacks 28 years later." —savorypunk804 16."About a year ago, I was being stalked by an ex-boyfriend. When I told my mom about it, she said that back in the day, his refusal to give up would've been seen as endearing. Like, no, Mom — that's harassment." —u/noiness420 17."Not understanding how much childcare costs and thinking you should just have more children." —u/ophelia8991 Have your parents ever said something so out-of-touch it stopped you in your tracks? Share your thoughts or story in the comments below.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
15 Conversations You'll NEVER Win With Your Boomer Parent
Navigating conversations with your Boomer parent can feel like stepping into a time warp. Certain topics can become a conversational Bermuda Triangle, whether it's a nostalgic recount of the good ol' days or a heated debate about today's tech-savvy world. We love our Boomer parents, but sometimes, even with the best intentions, these discussions feel less like a chat and more like trench warfare. Here are 15 conversations with your Boomer parent that might just be unwinnable, no matter how hard you try. Your Boomer parent probably has an epic story of how they braved snowstorms and uphill roads to get to school every day. It's a tale that's been passed down like a family heirloom, meant to inspire resilience. But when you mention the convenience of today's school buses and carpooling apps, it's as if you've stepped on a landmine. Remind them of modern challenges—like skyrocketing tuition fees or today's job market—and you're just making excuses. It's a classic battle of "then vs. now," and neither side is willing to budge. The nostalgia they feel is real and deeply tied to their identity. So, it's best to just nod and let them have this one. Boomers often see smartphones as the ultimate distraction, a sentiment that seems to increase with every new app release. They might reminisce about the days when you had to actually talk to people face-to-face. You, on the other hand, are aware that smartphones are not just for social media; they're a lifeline for work, news, and staying connected. Pew Research shows that technology and the digital era have had a positive impact on our lives in many ways. Explaining this is like telling them the sky isn't blue; they just have a hard time buying it. The phone represents a generational shift, they're just not comfortable with. They see it as a barrier, whereas you see it as a bridge. Sometimes it's easier to just put the phone down and engage in good old-fashioned conversation, even if it's just to keep the peace. Boomers love a good phone call, viewing it as the gold standard of communication. Texts and emails can seem impersonal to them, lacking the warmth of a voice. You might try to explain that your busy schedule makes texting more feasible, but this often falls on deaf ears. They long for the days when a ringing phone was a household event, not an intrusion. The reality is that our lifestyles have evolved, but the emotional connection to voice communication remains a sticking point. Younger generations are redefining what it means to stay in touch. When your Boomer parent laments the lost art of conversation, a surprise phone call can be the perfect peace offering. It's a simple gesture that speaks volumes. Mental health conversations are evolving, but for many Boomers, therapy is still a foreign concept. They may champion the 'just tough it out' mentality, seeing therapy as an indulgence rather than a necessity. You, however, understand that taking care of your mental health is as crucial as looking after your physical health. According to Psychology Today, the stigma around mental health is slowly dissolving, but old habits die hard. Suggesting therapy might sound like you're accusing them of being 'broken,' a misunderstanding that often fuels this unwinnable conversation. Bridging the gap involves patience and education, but even then, it might not be enough. Encourage them with stories of successful therapy experiences within their favorite celebrity circles. Sometimes, seeing a familiar face on board is all it takes to change perspectives. Ah, the age-old debate about the golden era of music. Your parent might wax lyrical about The Beatles or Bob Dylan, lamenting today's 'noise' as lacking substance. You could argue that every generation thinks their music is the best—you only need to consider Rolling Stone magazine's influence and longevity as evidence of how music evolves to reflect its time. Yet this conversation often ends with a mutual, silent agreement to disagree. They might not understand your love for modern hits, but that's okay. Music is deeply personal and often tied to key life moments. Sharing playlists is one way to bridge the gap, but be prepared for some raised eyebrows. Sometimes, the best compromise is a family dance-off where everyone's favorite tunes get their moment in the spotlight. Discussing rent prices with a Boomer parent is like explaining quantum physics to someone who's never heard of atoms. Their first apartment cost as much as a dinner out today, and they just can't wrap their heads around the astronomical figures of modern living expenses. You might bring up the inflation rates and how they've soared over the decades, but they often counter with anecdotes about living on just a few dollars a week. It's a never-ending cycle of disbelief and outdated comparisons. The truth is, financial landscapes have changed dramatically, and it's tough to convey the complexities in a way that resonates. They might insist it's about budgeting better, while you're navigating skyrocketing costs and stagnant wages. Sometimes the best you can do is share your financial reality without expectations of understanding. Empathy and a quick change of subject to something less financially fraught might be your best escape route. Boomers often express frustration about the cultural shifts toward political correctness. They may see it as stifling freedom of speech, while you see it as progress toward inclusivity and kindness. Bringing data on how language affects social dynamics might seem like a logical step, but it's often met with eye rolls or dismissive comments. This conversation quickly becomes a generational divide with no easy bridge. You may try to illustrate how inclusive language benefits society, but it feels like talking to a wall. Their lived experience was shaped by different norms, and changing these deeply ingrained beliefs is challenging. So, you might find yourself walking away with a sigh, knowing that time and exposure are the only real educators here. Until then, agreeing to disagree might be the only sane solution. This conversation often feels like arguing whether the Earth is round. While most Boomers understand the basic science, they often shrug off the urgency. They might mention how they weathered numerous climate crises and came out fine, dismissing current concerns as overblown. You, however, are acutely aware of the dire warnings from experts, fueled by daily news updates of extreme weather events. It's a tough sell convincing someone to care about something that won't fully impact them. They grew up in a different time, where environmental awareness was nascent at best. Engaging them in sustainable practices might work better than debates. Sometimes, showing them the benefits of eco-friendly choices in their own lives can create a more impactful change than any statistic or argument. Boomers often express disbelief at the work ethic of younger generations. They might believe that people today are lazier, citing an era where hard work was revered. You, however, understand the modern work environment—complete with gig economies, freelancing, and a focus on work-life balance. This divide in understanding what work "should" look like can become a battleground of ideals. Explaining the current challenges of finding meaningful, sustainable work feels like a lesson in futility. They often long for simpler times when job security was more prevalent. While you're trying to navigate an uncertain job market, they may view it as an excuse for laziness. The best approach might be showcasing your efforts and achievements, hoping it illustrates the hustle behind the scenes. For Boomers, the traditional life path of marriage, house, and kids is the ultimate measure of success. They often struggle to understand why millennials and Gen Z might prioritize personal growth and career over settling down. When you try to explain the joys of independence or the financial burden of starting a family today, it often falls on deaf ears. They see it as shirking responsibility when it's really about living life on your terms. It's not that they don't want you to be happy; they just have a different blueprint for happiness and stability. Sharing stories of people who have found success through alternative paths might help, but don't hold your breath. They're often rooted in their beliefs, shaped by their own life experiences. At the end of the day, your happiness is your own, even if it's not easily explained or understood. Boomers often see social media as the downfall of society, a time-suck distracting from meaningful interactions. Meanwhile, you view it as a tool for connection, information, and sometimes even activism. Trying to convey its significance often ends with them recounting how they managed just fine without it. This conversation can feel like a broken record, endlessly looping back to the same contrasting views. It's not just that they don't get it—it's that they see it as a threat to the world they knew. To them, the digital world is overwhelming and impersonal. Bridging this gap involves empathy and showing them the positive sides, like how it keeps families connected over long distances. But sometimes, it's better to let them hold onto their landlines and newspapers while you double-tap away. When it comes to topics from climate change to student debt, Boomers often say they never had such worries. This can make it feel like they're dismissing the very real challenges you face. You try to explain how these issues have escalated in recent years, but it often feels like shouting into the void. They might reminisce about how they managed with less, but times have undeniably changed. Their intentions aren't malicious; they just have a tough time relating to a world vastly different from the one they knew. They might see modern challenges as exaggerated fears rather than pressing issues. You can share articles and statistics until you're blue in the face, but sometimes it's just another unwinnable conversation. Accepting their perspective is as valid as your reality might be the only way to move forward. Boomers might accuse younger generations of being too easily offended, without realizing the cultural shifts that have led to increased awareness and sensitivity. You know that what was once considered acceptable is now seen in a different light. This conversation often turns into a debate over the merits of free speech versus the need for cultural sensitivity. Trying to get them to understand the nuance often feels like a losing battle. The shift toward a more inclusive society is difficult for those who grew up in a different era. They might see it as losing freedom rather than gaining empathy. You can explain until you're hoarse, but sometimes it's best to lead by example rather than words. Over time, exposure and experience might shift their perspective more than any conversation can. Boomers often have a traditional view on relationships, seeing marriage as the ultimate commitment and end goal. The idea of long-term partnerships without a ring might seem foreign or even irresponsible. You might counter with the benefits of partnership without paperwork, but they're often unconvinced. To them, the ring symbolizes stability and serious commitment. Changing deeply rooted beliefs about relationships is no small feat. You can share stories of successful non-traditional relationships, but those often seem like exceptions rather than the norm. For them, the symbolism of marriage is deeply ingrained. Sometimes, letting them hold onto their ideals while you forge your own path is the best compromise you can reach. The idea of a 'better' past is a familiar refrain from Boomers, often referring to times that were more straightforward. You might argue that those good old days weren't as inclusive or fair as they remember. This conversation can quickly become a heated debate over nostalgia versus reality. They might see your perspective as cynical or unpatriotic. It's a complex topic, layered with personal and political undertones. They might be yearning for a sense of security and predictability rather than the actual events of the past. Sometimes the best you can do is listen and gently challenge their memories with facts and empathy. It's a tough conversation, but one that's worth having to bridge the generational gap, even if the bridge seems tenuous at best.
