Tracing the Evolution of Our Language
Each year, as we anticipate the announcement of various words of the year, there's been an undeniable trend—most selections have grown darker, reflecting societal anxieties and challenges. From words like 'fake news' and 'permacrisis' to 'gaslighting' and 'toxic', we see language embodying our collective apprehensions. However, the emergence of 'six-seven' signals a refreshing shift.
A Groundbreaking Choice
Dictionary.com's selection of 'six-seven' as the word of 2025 stands out. It's the first word of the year targeted specifically at a younger demographic—tweens and teenagers—meaning “so-so” or used whimsically to exasperate adults. In a time where adolescents often feel burdened by societal pressures, this choice is not merely a trend; it's a cultural reflection.
“Humor is precious. It's human, even if distilled through tech. If you can share a joke, you can truly connect.”
The Dark Gallery of Past Selections
Taking a retrospective glance at previous winners is like flipping through a photo album of societal moods. Words of years past resonate with the aspirations and fears of their times. Choices like 'binge-watch' in 2015 and 'podcast' in 2005 felt fitting for eras characterized by exploration and growth. Yet, as the years progressed, our lexicon morphed, often mirroring a descent into a more cynical psyche.
- 2005: podcast
- 2010: change
- 2017: youthquake
- 2018: toxic
- 2023: rizz
Fast forward to recent selections, and we have words like 'rage bait' and 'parasocial'—the result of an increasingly polarized society. They encapsulate the pervasive environment of manipulation and distance that frequently manifests in online interactions.
The Fun Factor in Language
Interestingly, amidst this sea of dismal terms, we now find several entries that embrace levity. Words like 'goblin mode' and 'rizz' highlight the playful side of communication—linguistic artifacts that resonate with humor and youth culture. This juxtaposition invites us to reconnect with the lighter aspects of human interaction.
Connecting Through Humor
'Six-seven' serves as an embodiment of youthful spirit—a reminder that beneath the layers of anxiety and disillusionment, there is still room for playfulness. The mere act of using 'six-seven' is an invitation to engage, to bond with peers through shared laughter and a collective sense of identity.
A Hopeful Outlook for 2025
As we navigate through these tumultuous times, the selection of 'six-seven' offers a subtle, yet profound, message. It suggests that humor, absurdity, and lightheartedness are not only vital, but essential for resilience. In a world that frequently feels overwhelming, this playful term could symbolize a fresh beginning, one where young voices reclaim agency through the language of silliness.
Conclusion: The Power of Language
Language is more than mere words; it's a canvas for our collective consciousness. The emergence of terms like 'six-seven' could herald a transformative moment—a reawakening of connections and humanity in an increasingly disconnected world. The potential for humor to forge bonds should never be underestimated. After all, if we can laugh together, we can face anything.
Source reference: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/dec/20/words-of-the-year-six-seven-teenagers
