Retiring the Phrase '6-7': Insights from the 50th Annual Banished Words List
The annual Michigan college survey has revealed that the phrase "6-7" is considered overused and should be retired as we head into the new year. This phrase is just one of the top 10 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List" compiled by Lake Superior State University. The list, which started as a New Year's Eve party idea in 1976, aims to highlight overused slang and unnecessary phrases in the English language. Over 1,400 submissions were received from all 50 states and several countries outside the U.S., including Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Japan.
Other words and phrases that made the top 10 list include "demure," "incentivize," "perfect," "gift/gifted," "my bad," and "reach out." According to David Travis, the president of Lake Superior State University, the list reflects the current fads and trends in language, particularly among the younger generation. The prevalence of social media has made it easier to misuse or misunderstand words, especially in the absence of tone or body language cues.
The phrase "6-7" gained popularity in 2025, particularly among Gen Z, but its meaning remains ambiguous and nonsensical to many. It has become an inside joke driven by social media, leaving even some users unsure of its significance. Despite its popularity, some individuals, like Jalen Brezzell, do not find the humor in it and choose not to use it. However, banning such phrases may be challenging, as they often have a way of sticking around in popular culture.
While some words and phrases on the banished list may endure, others are likely to fade away over time. Travis believes that "6-7" may fall out of favor in the coming year, as new trends emerge in language usage. Ultimately, language is constantly evolving, and certain terms may come and go with changing cultural norms and communication styles.