Not Gonna Lie (NGL): Meaning, Usage & Tips for Brands
Not Gonna Lie (NGL) is a casual slang phrase meaning “I’m being honest.” Popular on social media and in influencer marketing, NGL signals sincerity and can boost engagement when used strategically.
What Does Not Gonna Lie (NGL) Mean?
“Not Gonna Lie,” often shortened to NGL, is internet slang used to preface a truthful statement. When someone types or says NGL, they’re signaling they’re about to be upfront, candid, or share a genuine opinion.
Why NGL Matters in Social Media and Influencer Marketing
1. Builds Trust: Authenticity drives loyalty. When influencers or brands use NGL, they invite audiences to believe their next statement is real and heartfelt.
2. Sparks Engagement: NGL hooks attention. Followers pause to see what confession or insight comes next, boosting likes, comments, and shares.
3. Feels Relatable: Everyone appreciates honesty. Using NGL creates a casual, conversational tone that mirrors everyday speech.
Examples of NGL in Action
- Influencer Post: "NGL, these running shoes are game-changers. I’ve never felt lighter on my feet!"
- Brand Tweet: "NGL, our new iced latte recipe might be our best yet. Have you tried it? ☕️ #SummerSips"
- Instagram Story Poll: "NGL, this new filter makes everything look like a movie. Agree or disagree? 🎬"
Each example uses NGL to set up a candid, attention-grabbing moment.
Common Misconceptions and Variations
- NGL isn’t just for negative feedback. While people sometimes use it to soften a critical remark, it works equally well for praise or fun facts.
- It’s not the NGL anonymous Q&A app. Although there’s an app named “NGL” for inbox confessions, the phrase itself predates the app and is purely shorthand for “Not Gonna Lie.”
- Variations: “NGL tho,” “ngl I…” or simply lowercase “ngl” all convey the same honesty cue.
Why Brands and Creators Should Care
1. Humanizes Your Voice: In a world of polished ads, a real moment stands out.
2. Encourages Dialogue: Phrases like NGL invite responses—followers want to share their own honest takes.
3. Increases Shareability: Candid posts feel more organic, making them more likely to be shared in stories and feeds.
Practical Tips for Using NGL Effectively
- Keep It Genuine: Only use NGL when you actually mean it. Overusing it dilutes its impact.
- Pair with Visuals: A behind-the-scenes photo or candid video amplifies your honest tone.
- Ask a Question: After your NGL statement, prompt your audience—"NGL, what’s your go-to summer product?"
- Monitor Engagement: Track comments and shares on NGL posts to see what resonates most with your audience.
Wrap-Up
NGL is a simple but powerful shorthand for honesty. When brands and creators use it sparingly and sincerely, it can boost trust, spark engagement, and help content cut through the noise. Next time you want to share a genuine opinion or insider tip, don’t be afraid to start with NGL.
