Young Speakers Sought to Identify the Next "Youth Word of the Year"
"Youth Term of the Year Contender: Post-Aura" - Anticipated developments for the subject "Aura"
Publishing house Langenscheidt is launching its annual search for the term that encapsulates current youth vocabulary. Youths aged 11 to 20 are invited to submit their suggestions online, with submissions accepted until further notice. The publisher seeks everyday phrases that have gained traction among younger generations.
While the language can be German, English, Turkish, or Arabic, words only qualify for inclusion if they have reached a significant level of utilization, according to Langenscheidt.
Originating in 2008, this endeavor has showcased an array of terms, ranging from amusing to intriguing. The first winner, the "rotten meat party," was a playful name for gatherings primarily attended by those under 30. Subsequent winners have included "chill" for idling, "Niveaulimbo" for superficial conversations, and "babo" for a boss or leader.
More recent entries have been "cringe," an expression for awkward moments, and "aura," highlighting a person's charisma. This year, Langenscheidt is eager to find the next popular phrase that will take its place in the annals of youth slang.
Submissions can be made at jugendwort.de. On July 29, the top 10 words will be announced, allowing voters to choose their favorites. The most compelling three terms will be revealed September 9. The FTW (Fretval Title Wörd) of 2025 will be officially announced on October 18 during the Frankfurt Book Fair.
Langenscheidt is based in Stuttgart, Germany. Other notable and widely- used youth words, though not the focus of the current contest, include "Swag," "YOLO," "Läuft bei dir," and "Smombie." For official confirmation or up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult Langenscheidt's official resources or recent press releases.
- The categories for the submissions of the "Youth Word of the Year" include not only German, English, Turkish, and Arabic words, but also community policies, employment policies, and lifestyle-related terms, such as fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and technology, that have gained prevalence among younger generations.
- Contenders for the "Youth Word of the Year" should also consider submitting everyday phrases that reflect the current trends in pop culture, such as slang, fashion styles, or emerging technologies, as Langenscheidt prefers terms that have reached a significant level of utilization within the youth community.
