The People vs. ChatGPT

For the last year or so, we’ve seen the fears of artificial intelligence (AI) plaguing our social media posts, leaving writers and art directors wondering about the longevity of their careers. As ChatGPT takes the front stage of new trending topics, it’s essential first to understand what it is and then question its creative capabilities.

For those who may have escaped the hype of ChatGPT, here’s a simplified explanation of what it is. As defined by Investopedia, ChatGPT is an AI model that engages in conversational dialogue. It’s a chatbot developed by OpenAI, a technology research company dedicated to ensuring AI benefits all of humanity. But can this tool be useful in advertising?

The ad industry is highly influenced by catchy phrases and trends that primarily originate from Black culture. According to an article on VOX.com, Black teenage girls are the invisible tastemakers creating and popularizing some of the biggest trends. The effect Black teenagers have on popular culture has only increased as tech makes the world — and trends — less regional and more universal.

Knowing this, can ChatGPT compete with these trendsetters to produce marketable phrases? Can it create culture or even shape it? Can ChatGPT compete with Destiny’s Child’s “Bootylicious” slang term crafted during the group’s teen years? Can it express that something cool is “litty”?

We took the top-five trendy TikTok slangs derived from Black culture and wrote out their definitions. Then, we took those definitions and asked Chat GPT to come up with a new trendy word. Here’s what it created.

Round 1: ‘Slay’ vs. ‘murderize’

Humans say “slay”: A synonym to the slang phrase “killin’ it” used to demonstrate someone is doing a good job or something is cool.

ChatGPT says “murderize”: To completely dominate or excel at something, achieve a decisive victory, or perform with exceptional skill or confidence. The term has a bit of a playful edge and is often used lightheartedly or humorously. While the word “murderize” is not commonly used, it is a creative and unique way to express the concept of “slaying” in a new way.

Round 2: ‘No cap’ vs ‘100 proof’

Humans say “no cap”: Not lying. Telling the truth. No exaggeration. Another expression for seriously.

ChatGPT says “100 proof”: Alludes to the idea of alcohol being measured by proof, with 100 proof being the highest concentration of alcohol. “100 proof” could express that someone is sincere, truthful and genuine. The term has a bit of a tough and cool connotation to it and could be used in a variety of contexts where honesty and authenticity are valued.

Round 3: ‘Low key’ vs ‘undercrave’

Humans say “low key”: Implies someone secretly wants to do something, but they don’t want to be obvious about it.

ChatGPT says “undercrave”: Combines the idea of “undercover” or “secret” with the desire or craving for something. “Undercrave” could describe someone subtly expressing their desire for something but doesn’t want to be too direct about it. The term has a playful and slightly mysterious feel and could be used when discussing food, entertainment or personal desires.

Round 4: ‘Lit’ vs ‘heatwave’

Humans say “lit”: Something is very good. A synonym to the slang “fire.”

ChatGPT says “heatwave”: Conveys the idea of something being so good that it generates intense heat or excitement. “Heatwave” could be used to describe a person’s outfit, song, performance or any other thing that is impressive or enjoyable. The term denotes positivity, and energy could be used where enthusiasm and excitement are valued.

Round 5: ‘Sus’ vs ‘funky’

Humans say “sus”: Something is suspicious or doesn’t seem right.

ChatGPT says “funky”: Used to describe situations or behaviors that are not quite right but difficult to pinpoint precisely what’s wrong. “Funky” implies something is off or unusual, like there might be a hidden problem or danger lurking. The term is playful and humorous and could be used where suspicion or wariness is present.

The moral of this story is that while AI is beneficial, it might not have the ability to shape or create culture in the authentic ways people do. When it comes to the People vs. ChatGPT, who do you rule in favor of?