1. “Sit on It!”
This catchphrase from Happy Days became iconic in the 70s, thanks to the cool, ever-rebellious Fonzie. When someone annoyed you or got on your nerves, telling them to “sit on it!” was the perfect, family-friendly comeback. It wasn’t rude, but it had just enough bite to let people know you weren’t having it. It was like a mild version of telling someone to “cool it”—pure 70s sass, with a side of leather jacket cool.
2. “Boogie Down”
If you were hitting the dance floor in the 70s, you weren’t just dancing—you were boogieing down. “Boogie down” became the rallying cry of the disco era, when the pulsating beats of Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, and Chic ruled the airwaves. People didn’t just dance—they let loose, grooved hard, and felt the music deep in their souls. This phrase was all about cutting loose and embracing the moment, and it’s still synonymous with 70s nightlife.
3. “Far Out!”
Nothing sums up the groovy 70s quite like “Far out!” It was an all-purpose exclamation used to describe anything cool, exciting, or a little mind-blowing. Whether it was a new album, a funky new pair of bell-bottoms, or a really “deep” conversation, “Far out!” was the go-to phrase. It reflected that cosmic, laid-back attitude that so many people embraced in the era of lava lamps and psychedelic music.
4. “Keep on Truckin’”
This saying was everywhere in the 70s, often accompanied by that famous cartoon of a guy leaning back, legs outstretched, striding forward like he owned the world. It wasn’t just about literally “trucking” or driving a big rig—it symbolized perseverance, rolling with the punches, and moving forward no matter what. If someone told you to “keep on truckin’,” they were telling you to hang in there, take life in stride, and just keep going. It captured the free-spirited vibe of the time perfectly, like a motto for life’s unexpected twists and turns.
5. “Can You Dig It?”
This classic 70s phrase was the ultimate way to ask if someone understood or appreciated what you were saying, but with a much cooler edge. It was part of the era’s slang, often dropped into conversation when someone was trying to make sure you were on their level. “Can you dig it?” was more than a question—it was an invitation to join the fun, the groove, the mood of the moment. If you said it, you were definitely cool.
6. “What’s Your Sign?”
Thanks to the rise of astrology in the 70s, “What’s your sign?” became the ultimate icebreaker. This question was asked at parties, on dates, and even in casual conversations, as everyone seemed to be suddenly obsessed with the zodiac. It wasn’t just about compatibility—it was a way to gauge someone’s personality, predict your fate, or explain why Mercury in retrograde was messing with your plans. Even if you weren’t sure what your sign really said about you, asking the question was almost mandatory back then.
7. “Right On!”
“Right on!” was the perfect phrase for showing agreement or excitement in the 70s and 80s. It had an air of positivity and solidarity, a way of saying, “I get you, and I’m all in.” Whether you were cheering on your friends, agreeing with a powerful statement, or simply vibing with a new idea, “Right on!” was the ultimate way to express your approval. It felt inclusive and energetic, just like the era it belonged to.
8. “Catch You on the Flip Side”
Long before digital communication took over, this phrase, often heard on CB radios, was how truckers and cool kids said goodbye. “Catch you on the flip side” was a casual, easygoing way to say, “I’ll see you later.” It hinted at a reunion or reconnection, but without any pressure—it was as laid-back as the times. CB radio culture popularized it, but it quickly became part of everyday language, giving even farewells a touch of cool.
9. “Totally”
The 80s owned this word. “Totally” was the ultimate agreement, intensifier, or exclamation in the decade of big hair and Valley girls. Whether you were “totally stoked,” “totally awesome,” or just “totally,” it was a word that fit any mood. The 80s kids used it like punctuation, and it perfectly captured the exuberance and excess of the time. You didn’t just like something—you totally liked it, making everything seem bigger, bolder, and more, well, totally rad.
10. “Bogus!”
When something was lame, unfair, or just plain wrong, it was “bogus.” This 80s slang was a quick way to express disappointment or frustration, especially when things didn’t go your way. Whether it was a bad grade, a failed plan, or just an unfortunate event, saying “bogus!” made you feel a little better about it all. It was the verbal shrug of the 80s.
11. “Psyche!”
When you wanted to mess with someone in the 80s, you’d drop a “psyche!” after fooling them into believing something was true. The phrase was playful, but with a little mischievous twist. If you said something shocking or unexpected, then followed it with “psyche!” it was the equivalent of saying “just kidding” but with way more attitude. It was the go-to move for pulling a fast one on your friends.
12. “No Duh”
If someone pointed out the obvious in the 80s, you’d hit them with a “no duh.” It was the snarky comeback of the day, the perfect retort when someone stated something painfully clear. It added a touch of sarcasm to conversations without being outright mean. Paired with an exaggerated eye roll, it was a favorite among teens who wanted to act like they were always one step ahead.
13. “Cool Beans!”
This upbeat, quirky phrase was used to express excitement or approval, but with a fun, lighthearted twist. In the 80s, if something was awesome, you didn’t just say “cool”—you added “beans” to the end, because why not? It was a goofy but endearing way to make everything sound a little more fun. “Cool beans!” embodied the playful energy of the decade.
The sayings from the 70s and 80s were more than just slang—they were part of the identity of those decades. They represented a time when language was colorful, casual, and often reflective of the laid-back, easygoing attitudes of the era. Whether you were chilling out with friends or navigating the cultural shifts, these catchphrases brought humor, energy, and a sense of connection that’s still remembered fondly today.
