Michigan College Reveals 2025’s Most Overused Words
Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has reached a significant milestone as it unveils its 50th annual Banished Words List. This unique tradition highlights words and phrases that have become overused or misused over time. Initially conceived during a New Year’s Eve gathering in 1976, the list has evolved into a global conversation about language, attracting over 1,400 nominations from all 50 U.S. states and countries like Brazil, Japan, and England this year.
Top Banished Words of 2025
This year’s list features several phrases that have drawn particular criticism:
- 6-7 (six seven): Criticized for its imprecision in statements like “six or seven reasons.”
- Demure: Regarded as overused, often paired with modifiers like “very.”
- Cooked: Said to overwhelm listeners, resulting in calls to eliminate its use.
- Massive: Frequently misapplied and exhausted from overuse.
- Incentivize: A term many feel unnecessarily complicates the language in favor of “motivate.”
- Full stop: Labeled as redundant, much like the previously banished “period.”
- Perfect: Often inaccurately applied, especially in customer service.
- Gift/gifted: Criticized for its transition from noun to verb.
- My bad: Considered childish and ineffective as an apology.
- Reach out: Once a term of support, now deemed overly utilized.
Repeat Offender Highlights
The list also identifies “Repeat Offender” phrases that have appeared multiple times over the years:
- Absolutely: Banned in 1996 and again in 2023, now noted as the default for agreement.
- At the End of the Day: This phrase has faced triple banishment (1999, 2022, 2024), criticized for its overuse by various commentators.
- Awesome: Initially banned in 1984 and again in 2007, it has been called meaningless by users from around the globe.
- Game Changer: First banned in 2009 and now appearing again in 2025, it reflects overuse in media and business contexts.
- Hot Water Heater: Introduced in 1982 and revived in 2018, it questions the term’s logical basis.
LSSU encourages individuals to participate in this linguistic tradition. Those interested in suggesting words for the 2027 list can find more information by visiting the El-Balad website.
