10 Big Bad Word Choices for Speechwriters

I’m going to begin by stating something incredibly obvious: Words matter in speeches. Trust a speech writer in NYC.

Duh, I hear you thinking. Fair enough, let me continue. A speech should be written concisely, meaning the speaker gets up, gets it done quickly, and gets out. That means the speaker (and by extension, the speechwriter) needs to use the right words—and the fewer the words, the more powerful they are.

So, speechwriters would be wise to heed Lake Superior State University’s list of banished words. These are ten words that have “worn out their welcome,” according to a school press release.

The list is a tradition that dates to 1976 and is considered lighthearted and non-serious. I disagree. Speechwriting is an art form, and speechwriters can’t get caught using language that, while once might’ve seen hip, clever, and in could now subject the speaker to ridicule.

So, here is LSSU’s 2025 list with its reasons for inclusion in italics, followed by my reasons speechwriters should avoid them.

Cringe — It has now overstayed its welcome. Overuse has dulled its impact, and ironically, using it might now cause the very reaction it describes. Overuse reduces words to cliches, and to hear someone say “Her attempt to rap at the talent show was so very cringe” makes me cringe. 

It’s also been turned into a slang word, as an adjective meaning “causing embarrassment” even though the word can still properly be used as a noun or verb meaning basically the same thing.

Game changer — This phrase, often used to describe anything remotely innovative, is as tired as a well-worn cliché. Speechwriters would be wise to use perfectly acceptable alternatives such as “innovative” “new” or “original.”

Era — The term’s overuse has made every fleeting moment feel like it demands a historical marker. I don’t have a problem with the word if you’re describing a sufficient period of time. But not every historical period is worthy of being called an era, especially when it’s personal history like “parenthood era” or “diet era.”

Dropped — Once edgy and cool, “dropped” has become more of a letdown. Whether it is an album, a trend, or a product, this term has fallen flat. I remember when something was “released,” “introduced” or “announced.” Those are still better choices for speeches.

IYKYK (If You Know, You Know) — Cryptic and exclusionary, this phrase offers little clarity or substance. Speechwriters should never resort to abbreviations in a speech, and the actual words constitute a cliche.

Sorry not sorry — A half-hearted apology masquerading as bold honesty, this phrase feels as disingenuous as it sounds. I agree. Just say what you mean; you’re either sorry or you’re not.

Skibidi — This viral word may have resonated with a younger crowd, but for many it is just noise. What does it mean anyway? It’s gibberish, so unless the speech requires uttering nonsense syllables, writers should not use it.

100% — Its overuse has left no room for nuance or doubt.  A phrase predominantly nominated for its overuse, some felt it was simply not applicable. I agree. I completely agree—is a more appropriate way to write it.

Utilize — A classic offender, “utilize” proves that longer is not always better. Why complicate things when “use” works just fine? I have long said this, and I never recommend any speechwriter ever use utilize.

Period — Yes, we understand your point—no need to verbally punctuate it. While I understand using this word while talking to or arguing with somebody, there is no place for it in a speech.

Speechwriting doesn’t have to be difficult, If writers would simply use the language simply, there wouldn’t be a need for lists like this. I can help with my speech writing services.

If you would like to discuss this or any other post, feel free to leave a message. Just click on the Contact tab and use the provided form.