This web show investigates the insane phrases literally everyone uses

Chances are, using the phrases “I’m LITERALLY dead,” or “OMG YASSSS” are part of your everyday internet language. (Don’t worry, we’re guilty of it too.) Do you ever wonder how we all started talking like that in the first place? In the latest episode of The Dirty Word, the Wifey TV web show that explores language, host Amanda Montell discusses the fascinating, modern-day trend of internet hyperbole.

In the vid, Montell points out how many of us regularly use over-the-top, morbid language that, as she says, “pretty much all means ‘Cool, I like this.’” It is true when you think about it. How did we all get so dramatic?

Montell offers her own theories as to why this exaggerated speech has taken over our lives. In previous episodes, she brought up the linguistic theory that young women tend to be the trendsetters for speech and use more expressive language online. “Colorful adverbs, creative hashtags…internet hyperbole seems to fall in line with these trends,” she says.

Montell also refers to the fact that social media banter is dependent on giant statements in bite-sized bits. “When we are only permitted 140 keystrokes but we’re trying to stand out amidst the cacophonous clutter of the web at the same time, it’s efficient to pack in the drama,” she explains.

Hyperbole totally makes sense, people! Before anyone gives you a hard time over your “literal death” at the sight of a French bulldog riding on a skateboard, have them watch the video below.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=