deadass
"Deadass" is a colloquial intensifier used to emphasize that something is true, serious, or genuine. It functions as a way to say "seriously," "honestly," or "no joke," often used to confirm the speaker's sincerity when making a surprising or bold claim. It is primarily used in informal, spoken English and is highly expressive. While it is common in urban dialects and internet culture, it should be avoided in professional or academic settings, as it can sound aggressive or overly blunt depending on the tone of the speaker.
In conversation
Confirming a wild story
I swear, I saw a bear in the backyard this morning.
I swear, I saw a bear in the backyard this morning.
Deadass?
Are you serious?
Deadass. I have a video of it.
I am being completely serious. I have a video of it.
Used here as a one-word question to express disbelief and demand confirmation.
Agreeing on plans
We should probably start studying for that final now.
We should probably start studying for that final now.
You're deadass right. I haven't even opened the book yet.
You are absolutely correct. I haven't even opened the book yet.
Used here to emphasize agreement and the urgency of a situation.
Examples
I deadass forgot my keys in the car.
I am being completely serious; I forgot my keys in the car.
Are you deadass going to wear that to the interview?
Are you seriously intending to wear that to the interview?
He deadass thought the Earth was flat until last year.
He genuinely and sincerely believed the Earth was flat until last year.
