Fad Words: Losing meaning.

We love fads of all types and they quickly become a part of our culture, at least for a little while. Certain words or phrases have over time gained completely new meaning which in certain cases devalued the word and its impact. This is sad. Take for example : AWESOME. I was asked to pass the salt at a restaurant and in doing so received the accolade “awesome”. That socially polite act is as far away as possible from the true meaning of “awesome”.  I understand that the person was merely acknowledging my act with a thank you. The word used to mean “inspiring admiration or wonder” and is used in that context when people perform acts of courage. I would hate to see this word down-graded.

“CLUTCH”. Ordering pizza for the football game is not “clutch”. Among other meanings the word stands for “a tense critical situation” where someone performs well. Using this word ten times in a conversation for every verb is not “so clutch” !

I do not intend to be some grumpy professor with elbow-patched jackets complaining about “today’s youth”. I understand the spirit with which these words are used, and applaud the generosity and kindness with which they are given. Lets just use them with some restraint and respect.