Full Breakdown
"6-7" Tops 2025 Banished Words List
1/1/2026, 11:22:30 AM
Overview of the Core Event
The phrase "6-7" has emerged as the most overused and misused term in 2025, according to the 50th annual "Banished Words List" released by Lake Superior State University. This list, which humorously catalogs terms deemed unnecessary or confusing, reflects the evolving vernacular trends, particularly among younger generations.
Background & Context
The "Banished Words List" originated in 1976 as a lighthearted New Year’s Eve tradition. Over the years, it has grown to include submissions from around 1,400 respondents across all 50 states and several countries, including Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Japan. The list aims to highlight phrases that have lost their meaning or are frequently misused, with "6-7" taking the top spot in 2025.
Key Figures & Groups
Lake Superior State University President David Travis commented on the list's significance, noting that social media has amplified misunderstandings surrounding language. He remarked, “The list definitely represents the fad and vernacular trends of the younger generation,” emphasizing the role of digital communication in shaping language.
The Meaning of "6-7"
The term "6-7" gained popularity over the summer of 2025, particularly among Gen Z, although its exact meaning remains ambiguous. Dictionary.com named it the word of the year, while other dictionaries opted for terms like "slop" and "rage bait." The phrase can be interpreted in various ways, including as a reference to the number 67, which is celebrated in college basketball when a team reaches that score.
Perspectives from Users
Alana Bobbitt, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Michigan, expressed her enjoyment of using "6-7," stating, “I find joy in it. It’s a little bit silly, and even though I don’t understand what it means, it’s fun to use.” Conversely, Jalen Brezzell, also a 19-year-old sophomore, admitted he does not understand the joke behind it and prefers not to use the term, although he acknowledges using other phrases from the list.
Official Statements & Responses
David Travis noted that while some terms on the list may persist, others, like "6-7," may fade quickly. He stated, “I think ‘6-7,’ next year, will be gone,” indicating that the phrase may not have lasting power in the lexicon.
Criticism & Opposition
While the list is intended to be humorous, some individuals, like Brezzell, question the need to ban phrases like "6-7," suggesting that it may be an overreaction. He remarked, “Banning it, even in jest, might be a bit of a stretch,” indicating a more lenient view on language evolution.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The list definitely represents the fad and vernacular trends of the younger generation,” — David Travis, President, Lake Superior State University
- “It’s a little bit silly, and even though I don’t understand what it means, it’s fun to use.” — Alana Bobbitt, University of Michigan Sophomore
- “ But banning it, even in jest, might be a bit of a stretch, he said, adding that he does use other words and phrases on the list.” — Jalen Brezzell, University of Michigan-Dearborn Sophomore
This year's banished words list highlights the dynamic nature of language and the cultural influences that shape it, particularly among younger demographics.
