“New Banished Words List Reveals ‘6-7’ as Most Overused Phrase”
UPDATE: The highly anticipated 50th annual Banished Words List has just been released by Lake Superior State University, and it’s sparking debate! Topping the list is the enigmatic phrase “6-7,” deemed overused and in need of a full-stop heading into January 2025.
According to the university, which surveyed over 1,400 submissions from all 50 states and various countries, “6-7” has emerged as a trending term among Gen Z and is considered nonsensical by many. It exploded in popularity over the summer, leaving parents and educators puzzled about its meaning. Dictionary.com even named it their 2025 Word of the Year.
Notably, other entries in the top 10 include “cooked,” “demure,” “incentivize,” “perfect,” “gift/gifted,” “my bad,” and “reach out.” The term “my bad” has been a repeat offender, having previously appeared in 1998, while “reach out” made its debut in 1994.
“The list definitely represents the fad and vernacular trends of the younger generation,” said David Travis, president of Lake Superior State University. “Social media allows a greater opportunity to misunderstand or misuse words.”
The tongue-in-cheek list began in 1976 as a New Year’s Eve celebration, aiming to highlight phrases deemed misused or overused. This year, it showcases how language evolves and trends shift rapidly, particularly through social media platforms.
“6-7” is often heard at college basketball games, eliciting cheers when teams reach that score. Alana Bobbitt, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Michigan, finds joy in using the phrase, despite not fully grasping its meaning. “It’s a little bit silly, and even though I don’t understand what it means, it’s fun to use,” she stated.
In contrast, fellow student Jalen Brezzell, also 19, expresses confusion about the term, saying, “I don’t really get the joke,” while still admitting to using other phrases from the list. “I’ve always used the word ‘cooked,’” he added, suggesting its rise in popularity is due to internet culture.
As language continues to evolve, Travis predicts that while some phrases like “at the end of the day” might endure, others, including “6-7,” may soon fade from popular use. “I think ‘6-7,’ next year, will be gone,” he said.
This year’s Banished Words List not only reflects current vernacular trends but also serves as a reminder of how quickly language can change. As discussions about these phrases ignite on social media, it’s clear that the conversation around language is more relevant than ever.
Stay tuned for further updates as reactions unfold from both linguistic enthusiasts and the general public.
