Brits Rally for Return of Flabbergasted and Gobsmacked Words
Words like flabbergasted, chuffed, and gobsmacked are among the nostalgic terms that people in the UK would love to see make a dramatic comeback in everyday conversations. According to a recent poll of 2,000 adults, other charming words such as bamboozled, codswallop, and kerfuffle also carry a strong sense of nostalgia but are now rarely or never used in modern dialogue.
Poll Highlights Declining Use of Classic Words
The survey, commissioned by Tesco Mobile, uncovered that only six per cent of respondents regularly use the word balderdash, highlighting how these once-common terms have faded from regular speech. However, a significant 81 per cent of those polled believe there are wonderful words that deserve to be revived and returned to regular use, suggesting a growing appetite for linguistic richness.
Tom Daley and Gyles Brandreth Lead Word Revival Campaign
In response to these findings, Tesco Mobile has partnered with Olympic diver and broadcaster Tom Daley, along with wordsmith Gyles Brandreth, to release the Essential Words of the Year list. This initiative celebrates the time-honoured words that Brits most want to bring back into their daily chats. Daley, who notably reacted to Kate Garraway's use of flamboyant language on Celebrity Traitors, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign.
He said: While I am personally shook flabbergasted is set to make a comeback, there is real power when using new, or sometimes time-old phrases. They're a great way to make conversations more interesting, especially with so many of us communicating through texts or calls. I love to chat and feel really inspired to broaden my word repertoire.
Modern Twists Could Bridge Generational Gaps
The poll also revealed that 42 per cent of respondents think these lost lingo words could make a successful comeback if given a modern twist. For example, codswallop might be abbreviated to talking cods, making it more accessible to younger generations. Additionally, 31 per cent felt that adapting or modernising some words in this way would be very helpful in bridging the gap in their use across different age groups.
Interestingly, 62 per cent of those surveyed agreed that these nostalgic words are clearer than their modern counterparts, despite being more flamboyant and expressive. This suggests that there is a perceived value in the precision and charm of older vocabulary.
Campaign Supports Mobile Tariff with a Focus on Simplicity
The launch of the Essential Words of the Year list supports Tesco Mobile's Essentials pay-as-you-go tariff, which is designed to cut through the fuss and give customers flexibility and control over their mobile bills. By championing straightforward and effective communication, the brand aligns its message with the revival of clear, expressive language.
This movement not only highlights a cultural shift towards appreciating linguistic heritage but also encourages Brits to enrich their conversations with vibrant and meaningful words from the past.
