gen
like, kind of, I mean (filler word)
Beginner Phrase
🔊
Pronunciation
/dʒen/
💡
Cultural Note
Gen has become the Romanian equivalent of the English filler 'like.' Originally meaning 'type' or 'kind,' younger Romanians use it constantly as a discourse marker, hesitation filler, and quotative ('I was like...'). Older generations often criticize its overuse as a sign of linguistic decline.
📝 Example Sentences
Gen, nu știu ce să zic.
Like, I don't know what to say.
Era gen o petrecere mare.
It was like a big party.
Am zis gen că nu vreau, dar nu m-a ascultat.
I was like 'I don't want to,' but he didn't listen.