Have you ever been scrolling through TikTok or Twitter and suddenly see someone comment, “Let them have their canon event”? The first time I saw it, I was just as confused.
Was it something related to cameras? A movie premiere? A secret inside joke I somehow missed? 😅
After seeing the phrase again and again under relationship dramas, friendship fallouts, and even funny fail videos, I finally looked it up — and wow, it made perfect sense.
Quick Answer: “Canon event” means a key moment in someone’s life that shapes who they become. It’s a casual, humorous, internet-friendly way of saying a certain experience is necessary for character growth.
What Does Canon Event Mean in Text?
A canon event refers to an important, sometimes unavoidable moment in someone’s personal “story arc.” It comes from fandom culture — where “canon” means official storyline — and is now used online to describe real-life situations people have to go through to grow.
It’s often said humorously when someone is about to make a mistake, learn a lesson, or face a situation everyone experiences at some point.
Example:
“Don’t stop her… this is her canon event 😭✨”
In short: Canon Event = Important life moment = A necessary experience for growth.
Where Is “Canon Event” Commonly Used?
You’ll mostly find this phrase on social platforms where storytelling and reactions trend fast.
Here’s where it’s most popular:
- TikTok 🎵 — especially in POV and storytime videos
- Twitter/X 🐦 — in replies to drama or funny fails
- Instagram Reels 📹 — in comment sections of relatable videos
- Snapchat 👻 — joking about friends’ chaotic decisions
- Texting with friends 💬 — for fun, casual conversations
Tone:
⭐ Very casual
⭐ Humorous
⭐ Not used in formal or professional settings
Examples of “Canon Event” in Conversation
Here are realistic texting examples using a light, modern tone:
1.
A: bro she’s going back to her ex AGAIN
B: lol it’s her canon event, let her cook 😭
2.
A: i think i’m gonna dye my hair red at 2am
B: yep… sounds like a canon event 😂
3.
A: he’s ignoring all the red flags
B: don’t interfere… his canon event is loading 💀
4.
A: i overshared on facetime last night
B: we’ve all had that canon event 😭
5.
A: i’m about to quit my job with no plan lol
B: ouch… major canon event energy
6.
A: she’s blocking him on everything
B: oh wow this is a season finale canon event 😭🔥
7.
A: should i send the risky text??
B: do it. for the canon event. 🤲✨
When to Use and When Not to Use “Canon Event”
✅ When to Use
Use “canon event” when:
- You’re joking with friends
- Someone is making a relatable mistake
- There’s a dramatic or chaotic moment
- You want to lighten the mood
- You’re reacting to social media drama
- Someone is clearly about to learn a life lesson
❌ When NOT to Use
Avoid using it when:
- The situation is serious or emotionally sensitive
- You’re speaking professionally
- You’re writing emails or work messages
- Someone needs real support, not humor
- It may come off as insensitive or dismissive
📊 Comparison Table
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Friend Chat | “go ahead, it’s your canon event 😄” | Casual, playful, relatable |
| Work Chat | “Take your time.” | Professional and polite |
| “Please review the document when ready.” | Clear, formal wording | |
| Social Media | “this is SUCH a canon event 😭🔥” | Fits the humorous internet tone |
Similar Slang Words or Alternatives
| Slang | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Main Character Energy | Acting like the star of your own story | Confident or dramatic moments |
| Character Arc | Personal growth or change | When someone is improving or learning |
| Plot Twist | Unexpected event | Surprising or sudden moments |
| Let Them Cook | Let them do what they’re doing | When you want to let events play out |
| Delulu | Delusional thinking | Light-hearted teasing |
| It’s Giving… | It resembles a certain vibe | Describing feelings or aesthetics |
FAQs:
1. Is “canon event” rude?
No — it’s usually playful. But avoid using it in serious emotional situations.
2. Does it come from movies or fandoms?
Yes! “Canon” originally refers to the official storyline in books, TV shows, and fan communities.
3. Can I use it in real life, not just online?
Totally — friends often use it jokingly when something dramatic or chaotic happens.
4. Is it only for bad moments?
No. A canon event can be funny, embarrassing, inspirational, or even positive — as long as it shapes someone’s journey.
5. Is “canon event” Gen Z slang?
Yes, it became especially popular on TikTok and spread widely across social media.
