Gen Z is known for creating new language trends, often revamping old terms or phrases and giving them new meaning. In recent times, they’ve introduced a catchy phrase that is taking over the dating world—”match my freak.” This modern expression may sound unusual at first, but its growing popularity shows how language evolves and how culture and music can influence communication among young people.
“Match my freak” is not just a quirky phrase, but it encapsulates a deeper desire for connection, not only in romantic relationships but in platonic ones as well. To “match your freak” means to find someone who shares your interests, values, and quirks, creating a bond that goes beyond just casual interaction. It’s about finding someone who truly understands and enjoys the things that make you unique, the activities that bring you joy, and the aspects of life that may seem unconventional or different. It’s an invitation to be authentic, to embrace individuality, and to share those moments with someone who is willing to match your energy, your vibe, and yes, even your “freakiness.”
The phrase stems from a viral line in Tinashe’s song “Nasty,” released in April. In the song, Tinashe sings, “Will anyone match my freak?” The catchy phrase, which originated from the context of the song, has quickly found its way into the lexicon of Gen Z.
However, its use has evolved. While the song itself has a suggestive tone, the way Gen Z uses the phrase is more wholesome and playful. Instead of aligning with the overtly sexual implications of the song, young people have appropriated it to describe a deeper, more meaningful connection with someone—a bond that revolves around shared interests and personal quirks.
Content creator Morgan shared with Elle Pate that the phrase has become a part of their everyday vocabulary, especially in relation to relationships and friendships. “When you say you want someone to ‘match your freak,’ you want someone to go day in and day out with you and do the things you love to do, but together,” Morgan explained. It’s an invitation to find someone who resonates with your way of living, someone who fits your rhythm, even if that rhythm involves quirky, unique, or offbeat behaviors.
Kelly Elizabeth Wright, an assistant professor of linguistics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, offered a more academic perspective on the rise of phrases like “match my freak.” According to Wright, phrases like this have always been part of musical culture, making their way into everyday language as they resonate with the public.
She pointed out that this isn’t the first time a song has introduced a term that becomes a cultural phenomenon. Wright mentioned Rick James’ 1981 hit “Super Freak” as one of the most iconic examples of such a phrase. Both songs, though vastly different in tone and message, have contributed to the lexicon of slang that connects music with cultural expression.
Wright also observed that this type of language is reflective of the era’s cultural attitudes, particularly in how it empowers individuals to embrace their eccentricities. “These songs feature everything from lighthearted conversations about self-acceptance to encouraging the acknowledgment of one’s own uniqueness,” she said. In the case of “match my freak,” it seems to empower individuals to embrace and celebrate their quirks and idiosyncrasies, finding someone who matches those traits rather than trying to fit into traditional or conventional molds.
Interestingly, the term “freak” in this context doesn’t just refer to extreme or out-of-the-norm behaviors but is more about personal authenticity. It’s about being comfortable with yourself and finding someone who can embrace that authenticity, even if it means being a little unconventional. This aspect of self-acceptance and embracing uniqueness is something that has become particularly prominent within Gen Z culture. This generation has pushed back against traditional norms and has cultivated an environment where embracing individuality is celebrated.
The evolution of phrases like “match my freak” in the dating world highlights how language and culture are constantly changing, influenced by the media, music, and the way younger generations view relationships and personal expression. Gen Z, in particular, has redefined what it means to be in a relationship, emphasizing emotional connection, shared values, and mutual acceptance of quirks over traditional dating scripts. For them, the idea of finding someone who can “match your freak” is more than just romantic—it’s about finding someone who can truly see you, as you are, and appreciate every part of you.
In fact, dating sites are catching on to this shift in language and culture. Plenty of Fish, a popular dating platform, has highlighted the concept of “matching your freak” as a trend for 2025. The site reports that 39% of singles have experienced this level of connection, where they feel deeply understood by another person. As the dating landscape continues to evolve, these expressions are helping shape the way people approach relationships and connect with others.
The impact of Tinashe’s song and the phrase “match my freak” extends beyond the dating world, however. It reflects a larger cultural shift toward self-expression, acceptance, and the celebration of diversity in all its forms. As people become more open about their interests, values, and lifestyles, phrases like this provide a sense of empowerment and camaraderie among those who understand and appreciate these shifts. They’ve become part of a broader movement where being yourself is the best way to find meaningful connections with others.
The popularity of such phrases also speaks to the influence of social media in shaping modern communication. As TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram continue to serve as platforms for viral trends, new slang terms often emerge and spread like wildfire. Young people are constantly reshaping how they communicate, finding new ways to express themselves and make their experiences feel more relatable. “Match my freak” is one such expression, gaining traction not just among people looking for romantic connections, but among those who are looking for friends, like-minded individuals, and even those simply seeking validation in a world that often pressures people to conform.
In conclusion, the rise of the phrase “match my freak” is emblematic of a broader cultural shift in the way Gen Z views relationships and self-expression. Whether used in romantic or platonic contexts, the term emphasizes the importance of finding connections that are based on authenticity, shared values, and mutual respect for individuality.
It’s a phrase that empowers individuals to embrace their quirks, celebrate their unique qualities, and seek out people who are ready to do the same. In many ways, this phrase is a reflection of the changing dynamics in the way younger generations approach dating, friendships, and personal connections in today’s increasingly diverse and open world. As slang continues to evolve, it’s clear that the desire for true connection—whether through dating or friendship—will remain a central theme for the future.
