Language is a dynamic force, constantly evolving to reflect the times. However, just as fashion trends can become overworn, so can certain words and phrases. Here’s an extended exploration into the lexicon of terms that many are itching to press the mute button on:
“Literally”
Once a word to emphasize exactness, it’s now sprinkled liberally in conversations. If you’re literally dying of laughter, it might be time to see a doctor.
“No Offense, But…”
The infamous precursor to a potentially offensive statement. It’s akin to saying, “I’m not racist, but…” and we all know nothing good follows that.
“On Fleek”
Eyebrows, outfits, even pizzas – everything was on fleek at some point. But trends fade, and so should certain phrases.
“Adulting”
Being an adult is hard, no doubt. But do we need a term for managing everyday responsibilities? Isn’t that just… life?
“Sorry, Not Sorry”
A phrase dripping with passive aggression. If you’re not sorry, just say so. If you are, drop the act.
“YOLO”
A mantra for living life to the fullest, but often an excuse for reckless behavior. Remember, you only live once, but regrets can last a lifetime.
“I Can’t Even”
A phrase of exasperation. But what can’t you even do? Finish your sentence? The world may never know.
“Bae”
A term of endearment, but perhaps it’s time to revert to the classics: darling, love, or even the simple and direct “babe.”
“It Is What It Is”
A verbal shrug. It’s the equivalent of saying “whatever” with a hint of resignation.
“Goals AF”
Everything became a goal. From celebrity couples to a perfectly made latte. But what happened to admiring something without needing a hashtag?
“Totes”
Totally unnecessary. Literally.
“Vibes”
Good, bad, chill, weekend – vibes were everywhere. But like all vibes, they come and go.
“Epic”
From tales of heroism to that sandwich you had for lunch. Not everything can be epic, can it?
“Slay”
A term of empowerment, but when everything is being “slayed”, it loses its power.
“Spill the Tea”
Gossip has been around forever, but do we need to spill tea every time we share some juicy news?
“Mood”
From relatable memes to random pictures of cats, everything became a mood. But moods are complex, and not everything fits the bill.
“Ghosting”
A modern dating term for an age-old problem: disappearing without a word. It’s time to bring back communication and leave ghosting to the supernatural.
“Squad Goals”
While it’s great to have a group of friends, not every group picture is a “squad goal.” Sometimes, it’s just a group picture.
“Hangry”
A lethal combination of hunger and anger. But maybe we can just say we’re hungry and irritable?
“Binge-Watch”
With the rise of streaming platforms, weekends were lost to this activity. But remember the days of waiting a week for a new episode? Maybe it’s time to bring back a little anticipation.
“Iconic”
Used for anything mildly popular. But true icons are rare. Let’s reserve this term for the legends.
“Low-Key”
From low-key excited to low-key annoyed, this phrase became the go-to for understated feelings. But sometimes, it’s okay to be high-key about things.
“Extra”
Being over the top or trying too hard. But isn’t the term itself a bit “extra”?
“Basic”
A term to describe mainstream tastes. But isn’t it more basic to label someone based on their coffee preference?
“Lit”
From parties to good ideas, everything was lit. But like all flames, this one seems to have burned out.
“FOMO”
The Fear Of Missing Out. With social media showcasing everyone’s best moments, this term gained popularity. But it’s okay not to be everywhere, doing everything. Sometimes, JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out) is the real deal.
“Shook”
From surprising news to unexpected outcomes, people were constantly shook. But it’s time to find our balance again.
“Savage”
Used to describe brutal honesty or cool actions. But true savagery belongs in the wild, not in our daily conversations.
“Flex”/h2>
From showing off wealth to a simple achievement, everything became a flex. But not everything is a show of strength or power.
“Thirsty”
Once a simple term for needing a drink, it became a descriptor for desperation. Maybe it’s time to quench this term for good.