1. It’s a canon event
An unpleasant yet inevitable life event that eventually helps one build character.
For example: It’s the new joinee’s first time managing a donor relationship. I tried telling her not to take on a 2.5 lakh grant with 15+ deliverables, but to no avail. It’s now a canon event.
2. Somebody cooked here
When you realise that someone’s already done or has attempted to do a task that you are now doing.
For example: I had a meeting with a high networth individual for my education nonprofit but they knew all the jargon already. Somebody cooked here.
3. Going feral
Experiencing a mildly annoying event that evokes a lot of anger. What millennials refer to as ‘being livid’.
For example: I just finally sent them a proposal we’ve been going back and forth on for three months only to find out their out-of-office email is now on for the entire month. I’m going absolutely feral!
4. Who let him cook?
Implies that someone is doing a horrible job and they should not be allowed to continue doing that.
For example: Just got off a call with a video production agency who is insisting that we pay 5 lakh for a video that dehumanises our communities and promotes poverty porn to “get the right eyeballs”. Who let them cook?
5. Rent-free
Persistently thinking about something.
For example: I can recite all the compliance changes that have taken place recently (FCRA, Income Tax, etc.) in my sleep–they just live in my head rent-free.
6. Do it for the plot
Making a decision that may have a bad result, but doing it regardless just to see where it takes you.
For example: A new CSR funder has asked us to completely revamp our livelihoods programme in rural Odisha that we’ve spent a decade building. We need the money so I’m going to do it just for the plot.
7. Touch grass
Implies that a person spends too much time online, is disconnected from the realities of the world, and should go outside.
For example: I need all the fin-tech people suggesting that we scale using AI to touch grass, just for one moment.
8. The ick
Feeling repulsed by someone over a minor action or comment.
For example: They’re a great coworker but think everything is a call-worthy emergency and I’m starting to get the ick!
9. W or L
Stands for win and loss. Often used to mean something good or bad has happened respectively.
For example: Just heard the conference has an open bar. What a rare W!
