Lake Superior State University (LSSU) in Michigan has announced the most banished phrase for 2026: the viral shorthand ‘6-7.’ This designation comes as part of the university’s 50th annual Banished Words List, a tradition that began in 1976 during a New Year’s Eve gathering. The list highlights words and phrases that have become overused or irritating, transforming a lighthearted protest against linguistic excess into an international phenomenon.
The Banished Words List has garnered significant attention, with over 1,400 nominations submitted from all 50 U.S. states and countries such as Uzbekistan, Brazil, Japan, and the United Kingdom. This year’s submissions reflect a strong public sentiment regarding the phrases that dominate everyday conversations. As members of LSSU sift through the nominations, they create a final list that serves as both a humorous critique and a mirror to contemporary language trends.
Leading the charge is the phrase ‘6-7,’ which many find vague and unnecessary. One submitter, Paul E. from Wisconsin, humorously suggested there are “six or seven reasons why this phrase needs to be stopped.” Another contributor, Scott T. from Utah, called for its removal using diner slang, stating it is time to “86” it. Their concerns center around the phrase’s ambiguity, which turns clear communication into a guessing game.
The list features more than just numerical phrases. The term ‘demure’ has faced backlash, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, where it has been overused in contexts such as “very demure, very mindful.” Tammy S. noted that the phrase has lost its original meaning due to overuse, while Madison C. echoed her concerns about its diminished essence.
Other phrases facing criticism include ‘cooked,’ which has emerged as slang for feeling overwhelmed. Parents like James C. from Washington have advocated for a ban on all ‘cook’ variants, expressing frustration over their frequent use. The word ‘massive’ also drew ire, with Don and Gail K. from Minnesota arguing it is applied to things that are far from gigantic.
Corporate jargon has not escaped scrutiny either. The term ‘incentivize’ was described by Patricia from Texas as grating and overly complicated, suggesting that “motivate” would suffice. Similarly, ‘full stop’ was labeled redundant, akin to the previously banished ‘period.’
Several words have made repeat appearances on the list, showcasing their resilience in everyday language. ‘Absolutely’ has returned after past bans in 1996 and 2023, now viewed as a lazy default for agreement. The phrase ‘at the end of the day’ has achieved a rare triple ban, while ‘awesome’ has resurfaced multiple times, with critics arguing it diminishes the word’s impact.
The tradition of the Banished Words List began as a public relations stunt by former LSSU public relations director W.T. Rabe. It has since transformed into a cultural touchstone that highlights the fluidity of language and the importance of precise communication. As the list evolves, thousands of contributors provide insights, ensuring that language remains vibrant and relevant.
The 2026 Banished Words List not only identifies phrases that have lost their charm but also reflects the evolving nature of communication in a rapidly changing society. As language continues to develop, it serves as a reminder that not all popular expressions warrant a lasting place in our vocabulary.
