What does FOMO mean?
Definition, Use Cases, Examples

FOMO Meaning

FOMO stands for Fear of Missing Out. FOMO is an internet slang initialism used to describe the concern teenagers have about not participating in an event.

The MMGuardian Phone

Samsung phones with MMGuardian built-in

How is FOMO used? Use Cases & Examples

Social anxiety is common among teenagers, so “FOMO” is a standard term in their vocabulary. They might use this slang expression in reference to events, such as social or athletic activities, that they want to be a part of. This anxiety is often exacerbated by social media posts.

Examples of how your teen might use the slang term FOMO:

-If I don’t make the team, I’ll have crushing FOMO the entire season.

-Laila always shows up – she has total FOMO.

-I’m scared to say I’ll go out with Owen. What if Daniel has a party the same night? major fomo

-Mateo’s running late but I know he’ll make it – fomo rules his life.

How to Identify if your child is using the FOMO slang word

You might learn your child is using this slang term by chance when a text pops up on the phone screen. But while the slang term FOMO is usually harmless, other teenage slang terms could indicate that your teen is talking about risky behaviors or communicating with potentially dangerous people.

Having a parental control app on your child’s phone will give you peace of mind by alerting you to your child’s exposure to risks encountered on their phone. With a parental control app installed on your child’s phone, you have the control to set alerts to help your teen avoid the pitfalls of predators, drug dealers, and other negative influences. Having the ability to vary the level of monitoring gives you the power to choose what is right for your child, and these levels can be easily adjusted at any time.

How to talk with your child about use of the FOMO slang word

Social anxiety impacts the lives of many teenagers. They can be quite sensitive to inclusion and exclusion at social or organized events. Here are some conversations you can start to support your teen as he/she navigates the murky waters of social encounters:

Why do you think some of your friends have such fierce FOMO?
How do you feel when you hear about an outing that took place that you weren’t invited to?
Do you think fomo interferes with people’s larger plans, like not wanting to miss a party that’s on the night before SATs?
What’s the craziest thing someone has done because of FOMO?

List of Teenage Slang Words

What does FOMO mean? Definition, Use Cases, Examples