Oxford Dictionaries are renowned for their unmatched contribution to the literary world, diligently recording changes in the English language. Every year, they highlight a term that encapsulates the zeitgeist of that particular moment. This practice encapsulates the zeitgeist of today’s evolving global conversation. When they announce their ‘word of the year,’ it is a reflection of our changing world, our concerns, and our collective dialogue.
The Oxford’s word of the year is not just any other common term; it is a modern condition that resonates with most of us. This is because their selection criteria is based on social, political, economic, and technological trends shaping human behavior and the planet at large.
The term is typically a lexicon for the popular discourse, commonly used in everyday utterances and critically analyzed in scholarly dissertations. This fact-check reflects changes in the use of language on a macro scale. This is especially true in today’s globalized world, where our lexicon expands and evolves at an unprecedented speed, intermixing cultures, dialects, and concepts.
When Oxford names their word, it portrays a cultural snapshot of the times we live in. They seem to have a knack for finding a term that captures a trend or a concerning development in society. In doing so, they help signify how ordinary people, scholars, and leaders are interacting with, and shaping, the world around them.
For instance, terms like ‘selfie’, ‘unfriend’ and ‘vape’ were Oxford’s words of the year in the past. All of these words collectively reflected an evolution in lifestyle habits due to advancements in technology and the rise of social media. The choice of these words provided a distinct snapshot of global society at specific points in time.
To understand the significance of the chosen word, one needs to keep an eye on the news, correspondences, and global dialogues. The dictionary records our written and spoken word, keeping track of the vocabulary that we use to express and understand our experiences, which in turn, form the basis for societal trends, norms, and shifts.
The ‘word of the year’ tradition by Oxford Dictionaries has commanded attention and consideration from language enthusiasts worldwide. Undoubtedly, its selection reflects the changing tides in our world, realizing the potential of language as less of a tool for communication and more as a lens to isolate and put under the microscope the myriad nuances of society.
However, it is essential to remember that while the ‘word of the year’ signifies a major shift in the global community, it is just one piece in the grand mosaic of culture and language. This choice is an invite to probe deeper into our shared existence, understanding the multitudes dwelling in this simple yet profound method of communication called language. It encourages us to appreciate the role of everyday vocabulary in shaping our perception and interaction with the world, validating the claim that language is, indeed, a living, breathing entity.
In conclusion, the significance of Oxford’s word of the year resonates far beyond a mere dictionary definition. It is a study in humanity, capturing the spirit of the world at large, offering a reflection of our times, and above all, pushing us towards introspection and critical thinking.
