Huh? What Does 'Sus' Mean in a Text?
Shorthand communication and the everyday use of popular slang terms have become the norm in our digital age. Between hearing the newest vernacular used by younger generations or opening up social media to another strange acronym, we're all becoming more accustomed to these trending terms.
Some abbreviations and slang are somewhat easier to figure out, like ICYMI and "snaky." You may even be familiar with the definitions of other popular words and acronyms, like GRWM, "based," TMI and WYD. But, what does "sus" mean?
Keep reading so you can keep up with the cool kids (AKA Gen Z), because we're unveiling the meaning of 'sus' and examples of how to use 'sus' in chat. Plus, find out where the slang term, 'sus', came from and why people started using it.
Related: 20 Emojis Gen Z Can’t Get Enough Of—and Exactly What They Mean
"Sus" Meaning in Slang
The meaning of "sus" in slang is pretty simple and straightforward. "Sus" is just a shortened version of "suspicious" or "suspect."
According to Urban Dictionary, the definition of "sus" is: "Giving the impression that something is questionable or dishonest; suspicious."
People use it to convey that someone or something should not be trusted.
Examples of How To Use "Sus" in a Chat
Here are some examples of how to use "sus" in a chat or text:
Something about his story seems sus to me.
Did you see how she kept avoiding the question? Totally sus behavior.
Why are you acting so sus all of a sudden?
That deal sounds too good to be true—definitely sus.
His excuse for being late sounds sus.
Related: What Does 'MB' Mean?
Does "Sus" Mean "Cute"?
Many folks have made the mistake of thinking that "sus" means "cute." The popular Gen Z slang term does not mean "cute." Rather, "sus" is commonly used to describe a person or situation someone may be wary or cautious of. Someone or something that is "sus" may be lying, hiding something or acting out of character.
Related: What Does 'SMH' Mean?
Where Did the Slang "Sus" Come From?
So, where did "sus" come from, anyway? According to USA Today, "sus" rose in popularity between 2019 and 2020. This was largely thanks to a popular multiplayer video game: Among Us.
Among Us is a multiplayer murder mystery game where one player is the imposter, and everyone else tries to figure out who they are. Players began using "sus" to refer to the individual suspected of being the impostor. It quickly became a trending expression to call out players in chats, although many folks now use it for real life.
