tech
'Mogging' is suddenly everywhere. Is that a problem?
This word for outdoing or outshining others originated in the manosphere, but is now thoroughly mainstream. Why is it so popular – and should we be worried about slang that arises from toxic subcultures?
TL;DR
- The slang term 'mogging,' meaning to outdo or outshine others, has become popular among Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
- Its origins are in the manosphere, where it meant to outdo someone in sexual desirability, associated with 'looksmaxxing' influencers.
- The term's usage has expanded to encompass outdoing others in any activity and is often used ironically.
- Linguists and psychotherapists express concern that the term, even when used ironically, reinforces hyper-competitive and individualistic behaviors.
- Despite concerns about its origins in toxic subcultures, 'mogging' is now widely used, often with irreverence and to poke fun at its original meaning.