Are You Basic?

Learn More About 'Basic' Culture

The term 'basic' became a defining slang term of the 2010s, used to poke fun at mainstream tastes and predictable trend-following, even as the line between 'basic' and simply popular has blurred over time.

Being 'totally basic' suggests fully embracing mainstream trends without irony. Being 'pretty basic' suggests mostly following trends with some individuality. Being 'a little basic' suggests a healthy mix of mainstream and unique taste. Not being basic suggests a distinct, less trend-driven personal style, while being 'actively cool' suggests intentionally standing apart from the crowd.

Cultural commentators have noted that 'basic' culture often simply reflects genuinely popular, well-loved trends, meaning there's rarely anything actually wrong with enjoying them.

Wherever you land, there's nothing wrong with liking what you like, basic or not.