The marking of a new year not only inspires us to look ahead but to reflect on the past and consider what can be done to make things better including our cringe worthy use of the English language.
It’s with this in mind that Lake Superior State University (LSSU) recently unveiled its 2024 Banished Words List.
“This season is marked by various joyful traditions, and the Banished Words List remains one of the most iconic, humorous, and quirky traditions in the region,” Sheridan Worth, director of marketing at LSSU, said in a news release.
A tradition since 1976, LSSU’s annual list highlights certain words that are often misused, overused, or have lost their meaning over the past year. It also encourages us to laugh at ourselves as we reconsider and reflect on the importance of our vocabulary.
“The tradition provides a lighthearted opportunity to pause and reflect on the past year—our experiences, communication styles, and the phrases we commonly use. At the end of the day, it serves as a platform for considering how we can progress into the new year with a more mindful approach to language,” Worth said.
The list that’s been presented annually for the past 48 years is not compiled by the LSSU wordsmiths alone, but a selection of nominated words submitted from around the world.
This year’s list featured more than 2,000 nominations from Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, China, Croatia, Germany, Guam, Ireland, Lebanon, Namibia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, Uganda, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, with the majority coming from the United States.
Wait for it!
Here now is the list of the banished words and terms selected for 2024 and the reasons for their banishment:
Hack
The term “hack” has become a popular buzzword, frequently utilized to impart an aura of innovation or sophistication to various subjects. Its widespread adoption in multiple contexts, extending beyond its initial technological context, has the potential to lessen its inherent significance. Using it everywhere, even beyond its tech roots, could make it lose its magic.
Impact
Why use this word, especially as a verb, when we have a perfectly good word that makes more sense: “affect?” Overusing it not only takes away its pizzazz but also robs other words of their spotlight.
At the end of the day
It’s been banished once and it’s being banished again. Those who nominated it say it is overused and meaningless, often employed as a rhetorical device that attempts to encapsulate the complexities of a situation summarily, lacking nuance and depth.
Rizz
It’s a shortened word for “charisma” that gained prominence as Oxford’s word of the year and has become a familiar presence in the realm of social media discourse. The ubiquity of this term prompts contemplation on whether it retains its relevance. With language doing the cha-cha of change, we’re wondering if this word still rocks the charisma scene or if it’s time for a language remix.
Slay
It’s a perfectly acceptable word when used appropriately but that’s no longer the case. It has transcended its original meaning and infiltrated situations where its usage no longer aligns with its intended significance. Now instead of a specialized term denoting exceptional accomplishment or a strong favorable effect, particularly in the characterization of routine or mundane actions, it’s sprinkled everywhere—from wearing a stylish outfit to tackling the art of parallel parking.
Iconic
This one made the list in 2009, and apparently demands repeating to point out its overuse and lack of meaning in most situations. Despite its initial recognition as a word worthy of distinction, its repeated application for content that does not merit such acclaim muddies its impact. It’s like that one-hit wonder playing on loop.
Cringe-worthy
From the comments: “The use of this term is cringe-worthy.” The irony is served hot, as the very term “cringe-worthy” finds itself under the spotlight. It’s like a word caught in its own cringe-worthy moment. Now, as we usher in the new year, it’s time to decide if this linguistic drama deserves an encore or if we should bid “cringe-worthy” adieu to make room for fresh, less cringe-inducing expressions in 2024.
Obsessed
To be interested or prefer something is not to be obsessed. Yet, our use of this word makes it a good candidate for the list as the casual use of the word to describe routine interests or preferences underscores a potential misappropriation of the term, prompting a reconsideration of its application. Should one be obsessed with a new kitchen gadget or a new shade of paint? This year’s contributors think not.
Side hustle
The widespread use of the term “side hustle” has prompted considerations about its impact on how we perceive economic challenges. It may be worth reflecting on whether its prevalence inadvertently downplays the genuine reality of the situation. While ‘side-hustle’ adds flair to our language, LSSU contributors feel that the only hustle is the one needed to get to their second job.
Wait for it
By watching the video, for example, a person is already waiting for it, right? While “wait for it” is trying to be the hype master, critics of the word question if it’s adding extra sparkle or just stating the obvious?
To view the full listing of words banished since 1976 visit lssu.edu/traditions/banishedwords/year/#year-1976. For more information or to nominate a word or term for banishment for 2025, visit lssu.edu/traditions/banishedwords/.
