Some TikTok Terms, Like Vent, Mean Just What You Think

It’s not unusual to feel that you have to replay TikTok videos multiple times, or re-read comments on a TikTok post, to be sure that you understand exactly what the creator or commenter is talking about.

That’s because many of the terms regularly used on the social media platform have meanings very different than the ones most of us learned while growing up.

• “Valid” usually doesn’t mean “true” on TikTok; it’s more often used to compliment someone’s look or outfit.
• “Ate” is unlikely to have anything to do with food, at least on the app; it means that someone did something extremely well.
• “Bet” rarely refers to a wager when the term is used on TikTok; it’s a way to say “I agree.”

Now, let’s talk about “vent.” The word has a specific meaning in the industrial world; it’s an opening that lets air, smoke, pressure, or contaminants escape. You more commonly hear the term used as slang, however. When someone “vents,” they’re releasing emotional pressure by expressing anger, frustration, or similar feelings.

And even those who’ve just signed up for a TikTok account won’t be baffled when they see the term used on the app.

What Does Vent Mean on TikTok?

It’s not always easy to complain or rant about something that has made you mad or resentful, or to honestly express sadness or depression stemming from a problem you’re facing. Friends or family members who you’re close to might be involved in the situation, they might be overly judgmental rather than helpful — or they simply might not care enough to listen for long.

When you’re on the app, though, a large audience is always available. Since most TikTok users don’t personally know you or the people you may be venting about, you’re more likely to find supportive viewers who are sympathetic to your plight, or at least willing to give you valuable feedback.

That’s made TikTok a platform of choice for many people who need to vent about life circumstances, both large and small. Whether people feel the urge to express themselves about world or political events, someone else’s TikTok post, or rumors or charges leveled against them, creating TikTok vents has become a popular way for users to let off steam.

A large number of vent videos on the app concern relationship problems, with the poster often asking “AITA” (am I the asshole)? Many others deal with job or family frustrations, customer service horror stories, or baffling tales that make little sense to other users.

Many mental health experts, however, say the subject of the vents doesn’t really matter. As long as the poster doesn’t “overshare,” and understands the limits of online feedback and the possibility of misinformation, TikTok rants may serve the same function as talk therapy. They allow people to unburden themselves and find validation from a supportive audience.

Two final important thoughts, though. As with almost everything on social media, don’t take anything — including venting — personally, and if someone seems to be experiencing serious mental health issues, encourage them to find professional help as soon as possible.