What's Happening?
Lake Superior State University has published its 50th annual 'Banished Words List', highlighting overused and misused words and phrases from 2025. The list, which began as a New Year's Eve party idea in 1976,
includes terms like '6-7', 'demure', 'incentivize', and 'my bad'. The phrase '6-7' gained popularity over the summer, particularly among Gen Z, despite its nonsensical meaning. The list reflects the influence of social media on language, where words are often shared without context, leading to misunderstandings. The university's president, David Travis, notes that while some terms may fade, others have lasting power.
Why It's Important?
The annual list serves as a cultural barometer, capturing the evolving nature of language and its intersection with technology and social media. It highlights how digital communication platforms shape vernacular trends, often leading to the rapid spread of slang and jargon. This phenomenon underscores the dynamic nature of language and its ability to adapt to new contexts and mediums. The list also prompts reflection on the impact of language on communication, emphasizing the need for clarity and understanding in an increasingly digital world.
