Oxford Language Club

Lowkey vs Highkey

Part of Speech: adverb
Definition: Lowkey means someone secretly wants to do something and they don’t want to be obvious about it. Highkey is the opposite. Someone wants to do something and they want the attention
Transcription: /loh-kee/ /hahy-kee/

These terms encapsulate the subtleties of expressing desires or intentions, offering a spectrum of subtlety and intensity.

"Lowkey" refers to a desire or intent someone holds but prefers to keep under the radar, away from public notice. For instance, "She's lowkey aiming for a promotion but doesn't want to boast about it."

Conversely, "Highkey" embodies a more unabashed, conspicuous longing or objective, seeking attention or acknowledgment openly. For example, "He's highkey excited about the upcoming concert and can't stop talking about it."

Synonymous with discretion, "Lowkey" aligns with covert aspirations, while its counterpart, "Highkey," resonates with overt and flamboyant inclinations. These expressions have found their place in everyday conversation, offering a nuanced way to convey desires or intentions while highlighting the subtle art of communication in contemporary language.

November, 2023

Posted by Oxford Language Club

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