Dear Crabby, Since you’re an illustrious wordsmith, I wondered what you thought of 2017’s Word of the Year?
Thanks, Paul Philology
Dear Paul Philology,
Well, I guess that would depend on which source you believe. For example, the folks over at Merriam-Webster picked ‘feminism’ because it got used so much during the year. All I know is that what encompasses feminism varies for many and as a man, I’m staying out of the line of fire. Next up is Dictionary.com who chose ‘complicit’ as the word of 2017. In case you don’t have a clue what the word means or how to use it in a sentence, let me help you out. Complicit means choosing to be involved in an illegal or questionable act. Meaning you probably know what’s going on is wrong, but you don’t do anything about it, so you’re still responsible, even if you’re not directly involved. So, it shouldn’t be too big of a surprise that this word got used a lot when talking about politicians.
Dear Crabby Gives Advice
Then there’s the Oxford Dictionary, which some consider to be the authority when it comes to this sort of thing. Are you ready for what they say is the word of 2017? ‘Youthquake.’ No need to adjust your computer screen or wipe off your glasses. THE word of cultural and social importance for 2017 is ‘Youthquake.’ Now, when I heard that, I assumed it meant when there’s a stampede of young people going to catch the latest Star Wars movie or buy Taylor Swift’s album. And if you can believe it, I was wrong, which was a strange feeling for me. Nope. ‘Youthquake’ is defined as “a significant cultural, political or social change arising from the actions or influence of young people.” Somehow, I feel dumber for knowing this. Don’t get me wrong. I’m all for young people making a difference, but calling it a ‘Youthquake?’ You’re just grasping at straws and trying to sound significant. Call me old fashioned, but I prefer words that teach you something. Ya know, make you reach for a dictionary or do a Google search, if you’re afraid to get a paper cut. In fact, if you do that whole Twitter thing, you might want to follow the Merriam-Webster account. They’re pretty sassy when it comes to setting people straight on words. But if I’m being truthful, the list I always look forward to is the one that comes from da yoopers up at Lake Superior State University. Their list contains words they think should be banished in the upcoming year. Usually because they’ve been overused or are just plain dumb. Last year they sent words packing such as ‘guesstimate’ and ‘on fleek.’ If something is ‘on point,’ just say it is. Don’t use a dollar word when a ten-cent word works just as well, or whatever the saying is. The last thing I’ll say is that on any given day, the average man speaks about 7,000 words. So, use them wisely and don’t waste them by saying things like ‘Youthquake.’
See ya in 2018,
Dear Crabby
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