"Can you guess 6-7 words from the Banish Words List? These words are often used by those who are upset or frustrated."
The Banished Words List: A Year-End Reflection on LanguageAs we bid adieu to another year, it's time to take stock of our linguistic habits. The annual "Banished Words List" has been a New Year's Eve tradition since 1976, and this year's edition is no exception. Released by Lake Superior State University, the list highlights the most overused and misused words and phrases that have become an integral part of our everyday conversation.
The list is compiled from over 1,400 submissions from all 50 states and several countries abroad, including Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Japan. The submissions are a testament to the power of language in shaping our culture and society. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's essential to recognize the impact of our words on others.
This year's top 10 list is a fascinating reflection of our linguistic landscape. At number one, we have "6-7," which has become a ubiquitous phrase in our digital age. The respondents to the survey are right; this phrase is indeed "cooked" and deserves a massive full-stop heading into the new year.
Other notable entries on the list include "demure," "incentivize," "perfect," "gift/gifted," "my bad," and "reach out." What's striking about these words is that some of them have been around for decades, with "my bad" and "reach out" making appearances in previous years' lists. This highlights the cyclical nature of language, where trends come and go, only to resurface again.
The list also underscores the role of social media in shaping our linguistic habits. With the rise of texting and online communication, we're more likely to misunderstand or misuse words without the benefit of tone and body language context. As David Travis, Lake Superior State University president, notes, "Social media allows a greater opportunity to misunderstand or misuse words."
The Banished Words List is not just a lighthearted exercise in linguistic critique; it's also a reflection of our cultural values and priorities. By examining the words that make the list, we can gain insights into what we value as a society. For instance, the inclusion of "incentivize" suggests that we're increasingly focused on rewards and motivation.
The list is also a reminder that language is constantly evolving. As new technologies emerge and social norms shift, our vocabulary adapts to reflect these changes. The Banished Words List serves as a snapshot of our linguistic landscape at any given moment, providing a unique window into the cultural zeitgeist.
As we embark on a new year, it's essential to be mindful of our language choices. By being more intentional with our words, we can create a more empathetic and inclusive environment for everyone. The Banished Words List is not about shaming or judging; rather, it's an invitation to reflect on our linguistic habits and strive for greater clarity and precision in our communication.
In conclusion, the 50th annual Banished Words List is a thought-provoking reflection of our language landscape. As we move forward into the new year, let's take this opportunity to reexamine our words and phrases, embracing those that promote understanding and avoiding those that perpetuate confusion. By doing so, we can create a more harmonious and effective communication culture – one word at a time.
