Ever received a message that said “NGL” and wondered what it means? You’re not alone! This short slang term pops up on Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram almost everywhere people chat casually.
NGL stands for “Not Gonna Lie.” It’s a quick and honest way to start a sentence, usually before sharing a real thought or opinion.
For example:
Alex: “NGL, that movie was way better than I expected!”
Jamie: “Right? I thought the same!”
In short, NGL helps people sound genuine while keeping the tone friendly. Whether it’s texting a friend or commenting online, knowing what “NGL” means will help you understand the modern slang language of Gen Z.
💬 What Does NGL Mean in Text?
NGL = Not Gonna Lie.
People use “NGL” before making an honest statement — sometimes serious, sometimes funny. It adds truth or emphasis.
Examples:
- “NGL, that pizza was amazing.”
- “NGL, I didn’t study at all for this test.”
- “NGL, I miss the old TikTok sounds.”
It’s similar to saying “to be honest (TBH)” or “truth be told.”
👉 (Related: [What Does TBH Mean in Text?])
🌍 Where Is NGL Commonly Used?
NGL shows up mostly in casual online spaces — anywhere people want to be real without sounding too serious.
You’ll often see it:
- On Snapchat stories (“NGL, this filter’s fire 🔥”)
- On TikTok captions (“NGL, this trend is actually fun”)
- In Instagram DMs or group chats
- On Twitter/X to express opinions (“NGL, this is wild 😭”)
👉 (Related: [What Does ICL Mean on Snapchat?])
🗨️ Examples of NGL in Conversation
Let’s look at how “NGL” works in real chats 👇
Example 1:
Sam: “NGL, I totally forgot about the meeting.”
Taylor: “Same, I was too tired.”
Example 2:
Mia: “NGL, I didn’t like that episode.”
Eli: “Yeah, it was kinda slow.”
Example 3:
Jordan: “NGL, I’m obsessed with this new song!”
Chris: “Bro same 😂”
👉 (Related: [What Does LOL Mean in Text?])
⚠️ When to Use and When Not to Use NGL
✅ Use NGL:
- With friends or family
- On social media posts
- In funny, emotional, or honest moments
❌ Avoid NGL:
- In professional emails
- During job chats or business meetings
- When writing to teachers, clients, or bosses
Example:
- ✅ “NGL, this playlist is perfect!”
- ❌ “NGL, I disagree with your proposal.” (too informal!)
👉 (Related: [What Does FYI Mean in Email or Text?])
🔁 Similar Slang or Alternatives to NGL
Here are some slang terms similar to “NGL”:
| Slang | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| TBH | To be honest | “TBH, I loved it.” |
| FR | For real | “FR, it’s so good!” |
| IMO | In my opinion | “IMO, this one’s better.” |
| No Cap | No lie / truthfully | “No cap, that was awesome.” |
| Lowkey | Kind of / secretly | “Lowkey, I miss summer.” |
FAQs
1. What does NGL mean in Snapchat?
NGL on Snapchat means “Not Gonna Lie” — it’s used before an honest or funny confession.
2. Is NGL rude or flirty?
No, it’s not rude! Depending on the tone, “NGL” can sound friendly, flirty, or sincere.
3. Can I use NGL in professional chats?
Avoid it in formal communication. Instead, use phrases like “To be honest” or “In my opinion.”
4. What’s the difference between NGL and TBH?
They mean almost the same thing, but NGL sounds more casual, while TBH can be slightly more polite.
5. What does NGL mean in memes or comments?
In memes, “NGL” often sets up a truth bomb or funny confession, like “NGL, this meme hits too hard 😂.”
6. What does “ngl fr” mean?
It combines two slang words: “Not Gonna Lie” + “For Real” — meaning “Seriously, I’m being honest.”
🔚 Conclusion
“NGL” adds honesty and humor to conversations. It’s one of those simple slang terms that make online chats more real and fun.
So next time you see “NGL” in a text, you’ll know it just means someone’s “not gonna lie” — they’re being truthful, casual, and totally relatable.
