Language is always changing, and some phrases don’t stand the test of time. What once rolled off the tongue in everyday conversation now sounds like something from an old sitcom—or a dusty yearbook quote. These expressions were once totally normal, but today? You’d probably get confused if you used them in casual conversation.
Here are 20 common phrases no one says anymore (at least, not without a wink and a time machine). They once ruled conversations, but now they’re more likely to pop up in punchlines than real talk.
1. “Talk to the hand”
This was the ultimate shutdown in the late ’90s. Now, it’s more likely to get an eye-roll than end a conversation.
2. “Take a chill pill”
A favorite phrase of middle schoolers and sitcom characters. Today, it feels outdated—and maybe a little dismissive.
3. “Don’t touch that dial”
TV hosts said this before commercial breaks, back when TVs had dials. Streaming changed the game, and this line vanished with analog.
4. “Heavens to Betsy!”
This polite exclamation dates back generations. It’s rare now unless you’re doing a Southern grandma impression.
5. “Let’s blow this popsicle stand”
It meant “let’s get out of here” in a fun, quirky way. Nowadays, people leave—no popsicles required.
6. “What’s the 411?”
In the pre-Google days, 411 was the info hotline. If you say this, someone might Google “what’s the 411?”
7. “Gag me with a spoon”
Popularized by Valley Girl culture to express extreme annoyance. It’s hilarious in retrospect, but it’s definitely past its expiration date.
8. “Cool beans”
This friendly agreement phrase was a ’90s staple. It’s more ironic than cool today, but still endearing.
9. “Long-distance call”
This used to be a big deal—expensive and special. Now every call is just a call, no matter the area code.
10. “Where’s the beef?”
This catchphrase exploded from a Wendy’s ad in the ’80s. It was everywhere until it wasn’t. Now it’s just vintage meme energy.
11. “Don’t flip your wig”
Translation: “Calm down.” But these days, it sounds more like drag slang than everyday language.
12. “Catch you on the flip side”
It originally referred to flipping vinyl records or cassette tapes. Now, it’s mostly used by people trying to sound retro cool.
13. “That’s the bomb”
In the early 2000s, this meant something was amazing. Now, with newer slang like “fire” or “goated,” this one feels retired.
14. “You go, girl!”
It was pure encouragement in the ’90s, especially on talk shows. Today, it’s mostly used sarcastically or in throwback vibes.
15. “This is the pits”
Meaning something was awful or disappointing. Now, you’d say “this sucks”—same meaning, less vintage flair.
16. “Read my lips”
Made famous in politics, then overused everywhere else. Today, it’s mostly remembered as a pop culture relic.
17. “The cat’s pajamas”
It once meant “the best of the best.” Now it sounds like something a time traveler from 1926 might say.
18. “Don’t be such a wet blanket”
A classic way to call someone a buzzkill. Modern versions like “party pooper” or “killjoy” have taken over.
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19. “That and a bag of chips”
Used to describe someone with an inflated sense of self-worth. Now, it mostly exists in reruns of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
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20. “It’s your funeral”
Used to sound ominous or edgy, but now it just feels overdramatic. In today’s casual speech, you’d probably hear “your call” instead.
While these phrases may fade from everyday use, they still hold nostalgic charm. Some might even come back—language can recycle the retro. But these expressions are now resting comfortably in the linguistic Hall of Fame.
Read More: 20 Phrases Sabotaging Your Speech: Drop Them Now!
