buzzword

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "buzzword" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a word or phrase that is popular or trendy, especially in a particular business or academic field. For example, "The latest buzzword in the marketing industry is 'influencer.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mindfulness Mindfulness was the buzzword of 2014, though it's a concept that has been popular with yoga devotees for years.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Disability is still just a buzzword in our country," remarks Savina Nongebatu, President of the country's only disability nongovernmental organisation, People with Disabilities Solomon Islands (PWDSI).

The Guardian

For an industry with a buzzword habit, it is easy to dismiss this notion of brand purpose – as the movement has been labelled – as the latest marketing trend.

The Guardian

Because twerking is the buzzword of the minute, it's easy to forget that it is not the first form of street/community dancing out there to highlight the booty.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Did he question it, or was he asked a question about our aura?" he said, in almost comic repeat reference to the new buzzword.

The Guardian - Sport

'Innovation', a buzzword beloved of middle managers and tech evangelists, is probably one of the most overused terms in development.

The Guardian

BILL MCKIBBEN, an American environmentalist, once dismissed sustainability as "a buzzless buzzword".

The Economist

But, at least in theory, it should be possible to push together Clearnet, Clearstream, Crest and the LCH, either through a formal merger or by making them "interoperable" (the buzzword of the moment).The trouble is that those vested interests get in the way.

The Economist

That could mean deferring any real change until enlargement.Flexing musclesThe third big issue at the IGC is "flexibility"—the latest buzzword for an idea that has been knocking around since the first enlargement in 1973.

The Economist

In short, Swarm is meant to be, to use a third vogueish buzzword, "disruptive".

The Economist

German innovation often takes the form not of "disruptive" ideas (to use Silicon Valley's buzzword) but incremental innovation and best-in-class processes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "buzzword", ensure it's appropriate for your audience; avoid overuse in formal writing to maintain clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using too many buzzwords in your writing. Overuse can make your message seem insincere or lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "buzzword" is as a noun. It refers to a word or phrase, often technical, that becomes fashionable and overused. Ludwig confirms its use in sentences to describe such terms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "buzzword" functions as a noun that describes a trendy, often overused, term, as verified by Ludwig. It's commonly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While grammatically correct, overuse can diminish writing quality. Alternatives include "jargon" and "catchphrase". Using "buzzword" effectively involves understanding its critical undertones and applying it judiciously. The numerous examples, verified by Ludwig, show that overuse of "buzzwords" can be considered negative in the context of communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

term

A word or phrase used to describe a thing or to express a concept, especially in a particular kind of language or branch of study.

watchword

A word or phrase expressing a principle or aim that encapsulates the generally shared attitudes or beliefs of a particular group or organization.

jargon

Refers to specialized or technical language of a trade, profession, or group.

catchphrase

A well-known sentence or phrase, especially one that is associated with a particular product or person.

slogan

A short and striking or memorable phrase used in advertising.

byword

A word or phrase associated with someone or something.

in vogue

Fashionable.

fad

An intense but short-lived fashion.

fashion

A popular trend or style.

motto

A short expression of a guiding principle.

FAQs

How can I use "buzzword" in a sentence?

You can use "buzzword" to describe a fashionable word or phrase often used in business or technical contexts. For example, "'Synergy' became a popular "buzzword" in the 1990s".

What's a good synonym for "buzzword"?

Alternatives to "buzzword" include "jargon", "term", or "catchphrase", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "buzzword" in formal writing?

While "buzzword" is acceptable, overuse can detract from clarity and credibility. Consider using more specific and descriptive language in formal contexts to avoid sounding cliché.

What's the impact of using too many "buzzwords"?

Overusing "buzzwords" can make your writing seem less authentic and more like marketing speak. It may also alienate readers who are unfamiliar with the terms or find them irritating.