What's Happening?
Lake Superior State University in Michigan has published its 50th annual 'Banished Words List' for 2026. This list includes words and phrases that the university deems overused, misused, or generally useless in public discourse. Among the words listed this year are '6-7,' 'demure,' and 'cooked.' The university has been compiling this list since 1976, aiming to encourage clear and effective communication by highlighting terms that have become clichéd or have lost their original meaning.
Why It's Important?
The release of the 'Banished Words List' by Lake Superior State University serves as a cultural commentary on the evolution of language and communication. By identifying words that have become overused or misused, the list encourages individuals and media to reflect
on their language choices, promoting more thoughtful and precise communication. This initiative can influence public discourse by discouraging the use of jargon and promoting clarity, which is particularly important in media, education, and public speaking.
