How do new words become official? Officializing new words involves coinage, widespread adoption, documentation, evaluation, and inclusion in dictionaries. Major dictionary publishers oversee this process, ensuring the word meets criteria like frequency of use and clarity. Once included, the word becomes standardized and widely recognized as part of the official language.

 

Start Conversations with These Words!

Developing conversation starters is an intelligent strategy because it helps break the ice, can lead to meaningful interactions, build stronger connections, and demonstrate genuine interest in others’ thoughts and experiences.

 

With conducting lessons, breaking the ice is crucial as it helps build rapport, reduce anxiety, and encourage participation, making students feel more comfortable and engaged. Icebreakers also set a positive tone, foster collaboration, and allow tutors to assess mood and energy levels and adjust their teaching methods accordingly.

 

So, we’ve compiled a list of the nine hottest new words in 2024. Check out their definitions and some spiels you can use as conversation starters!:

 

Flexiwork allows flexibility in when and where employees perform their duties, including remote work and flexible hours.

 

Infodemic combines “information” and “epidemic,” describing the rapid spread of misinformation, particularly online.

 

Zoomfatigue is the exhaustion from prolonged use of virtual meeting platforms due to extended screen time and cognitive load.

 

Greenwashing is misleadingly promoting products as environmentally friendly to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

 

Cyberhygiene involves maintaining system health and improving online security, such as strong passwords and regular updates.

 

Ecoflation refers to rising prices due to environmental factors like climate change and resource scarcity.

 

Metaverse is a collective virtual space blending physical reality with virtual reality, where users interact in real time.

 

Technoethics examines ethical implications related to technology, covering privacy, AI, digital rights, and bioengineering.

 

Cryptoskeptic describes someone skeptical about the value and future of cryptocurrencies, questioning their security and sustainability.

 

We hope these new words expand your vocabulary as these conversation starters will add value to your dialogues, encourage engagement, and enhance your communication skills.