Oxford and Cambridge’s 2024 Words of the Year: A Look at "Brain Rot" and "Manifest"
Oxford and Cambridge’s 2024 Words of the Year: A Look at "Brain Rot" and "Manifest"
This blog is part of the Sunday reading task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU), Prof. and Dr. Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's blog for background reading: Click here
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| Source: DALL·E 3 - Representational |
Q.-1.|What are the social, cultural, or psychological contexts behind the selection of these words?
Ans.
1. Introduction
The words of the year reflect the zeitgeist, capturing societal shifts, cultural preoccupations, and collective anxieties. For 2024, Oxford Languages chose "brain rot", while Cambridge Dictionary selected "manifest" as their respective Words of the Year. These terms, though disparate, illuminate profound insights into the evolving human relationship with technology, self-help ideologies, and mental well-being. This essay explores the social, cultural, and psychological contexts behind the selections of these words, analyzing their definitions, origins, usage, and broader implications.
2. "Brain Rot" as Oxford's Word of the Year
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| Source: (“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”) |
2.1. Definition and Origin
"Brain rot" is defined as the
“deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered trivial or unchallenging.”(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
While its earliest documented use was in Henry David Thoreau’s Walden (1854), where Thoreau critiqued societal tendencies toward intellectual decline, its modern resurgence reflects growing concerns about the impact of digital media.
2.2. Cultural Significance
The term "brain rot" encapsulates widespread apprehension about the effects of low-quality digital content on intellectual well-being.
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| Source: (“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”) |
With a 230% rise in usage between 2023 and 2024, the term has transitioned from niche online slang to a mainstream critique of digital consumption. Gen Z and Gen Alpha popularized it humorously, referencing absurd online phenomena such as the viral Skibidi Toilet series or "only in Ohio" memes.
However, its humor masks deeper concerns. As Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, observes,
"'Brain rot' speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life and how we are using our free time."(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
This reflects broader societal worries about mental health, particularly in youth, as studies link excessive screen time with anxiety and reduced attention spans.
Video on 'क्या है brain-rot? क्यों Reels देखने की वजह से brain सड़ने लगता है? Science explained | Aasan Bhasha Mein' on YouTube/The Lallantop: Click here.
2.3. Psychological Implications
The term's rise signifies growing self-awareness among digital natives about the impact of their habits. As Grathwohl notes, the younger generations amplify the term ironically, acknowledging the potential harm while continuing to participate in the very behaviors it critiques. This duality—criticism coupled with complicity—highlights a complex psychological tension in the digital age.
3. "Manifest" as Cambridge's Word of the Year
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| Source: (“‘Manifest’ is Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2024”) |
3.1. Definition and Evolution
The term "manifest" traditionally means "to show something clearly." However, its newer sense—associated with manifesting as a self-help practice—dominates its 2024 usage. This involves using visualization and affirmations to imagine achieving desired goals, based on the belief that doing so makes them more attainable. Cambridge Dictionary recorded nearly 130,000 lookups of "manifest," reflecting its surge in mainstream media and self-help communities.
3.2. Cultural Context
The pandemic served as fertile ground for the rise of manifesting, with platforms like TikTok showcasing billions of posts under #manifest. Celebrities, including Dua Lipa, Simone Biles, and Sabrina Carpenter, further popularized the practice, with Dua Lipa declaring,
“Manifesting is a big thing for me.”(Addley)
This association with celebrity culture bolstered its appeal, particularly among younger audiences.
3.3. Expert Critiques
Video on 'Why psychologists warn against manifesting - Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year' on YouTube/Cambridge Dictionary: Click here.
While manifesting emphasizes positivity and goal-setting, experts caution against its unscientific underpinnings. Dr. Sander van der Linden describes it as “magical thinking” that promotes unrealistic expectations. He warns of the potential harm in conflating positive thinking with the ability to reshape reality, stating,
“Believing in yourself…pays off because people enact change in the real world. However, moving reality with your mind is pseudoscience.”(“‘Manifest’ is Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2024”)
3.4. Psychological Implications
Manifesting appeals to a psychological desire for control and optimism, especially during uncertain times. However, it risks fostering disappointment when expectations fail to materialize. The practice illustrates a broader cultural shift toward self-reliance, blending ancient spiritual philosophies with modern aspirations for empowerment.
4. Comparative Analysis
Video on 'Brain Rot, Manifest, Demure उन Words का मतलब क्या, जिनका सालभर रहा बोलबाला! | Word of the Year 2024' on YouTube/The Lallantop: Click here.
4.1. Societal Reflections
"Brain rot" critiques the negative consequences of excessive digital engagement, while "manifest" embodies hope and self-determination. Together, these words encapsulate society's dual struggles: grappling with the impact of technology and seeking self-improvement amidst uncertainty.
4.2. Cultural and Linguistic Trends
Both terms underscore how language evolves to address contemporary concerns. Grathwohl notes that words like "brain rot" reveal
"how internet culture is permeating so much of who we are and what we talk about."(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
Similarly, Cambridge's selection of "manifest" highlights the intersection of ancient linguistic roots with modern practices, showing how meanings shift to reflect current preoccupations.
4.3. Broader Implications
The contrast between the two words—one highlighting societal critique, the other personal aspiration—offers a lens into 2024's collective psyche. They reflect not just the year’s dominant cultural narratives but also deeper tensions between escapism, self-awareness, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
5. Conclusion
The Words of the Year for 2024, "brain rot" and "manifest," serve as linguistic mirrors of the times. "Brain rot" critiques the cognitive toll of a hyper-digitalized world, while "manifest" represents the enduring human desire for self-betterment and agency. Together, they capture the social, cultural, and psychological currents shaping modern life, reminding us of the power of language to articulate collective experiences and aspirations. As society continues to navigate the complexities of technology and self-help culture, these words will remain emblematic of a pivotal moment in our evolving lexicon.
Q.-2.|How do these words resonate with your personal experiences or observations of contemporary society?
Ans.
1. Introduction
Language is a powerful reflection of society, capturing the essence of cultural, psychological, and technological trends. Oxford's 2024 Word of the Year, "brain rot," and Cambridge's selection, "manifest," encapsulate two contrasting yet interconnected aspects of modern life. While "brain rot" critiques the intellectual and emotional toll of excessive digital content, "manifest" represents aspirations of self-empowerment through visualization and affirmation. These words resonate deeply with my personal experiences and observations of contemporary society, illustrating the complex relationship between technology, mental health, and personal growth.
2. "Brain Rot": A Mirror to Digital Overconsumption
Video on ''Brain rot' named as the 2024 Oxford Word of the Year 🧠' on YouTube/University of Oxford: Click here.
2.1. Definition and Rise in Popularity
"Brain rot" refers to the
“deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of trivial online content.”(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
The term saw a 230% increase in usage from 2023 to 2024, reflecting growing societal concerns about the effects of social media and algorithm-driven platforms. Initially popularized humorously among Gen Z and Gen Alpha on platforms like TikTok, its deeper implications underscore the cognitive fatigue and emotional exhaustion experienced by millions.
2.2. Personal Observations of "Brain Rot" in Digital Culture
In my own life, the effects of "brain rot" are unmistakable. Endless scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, for example, often leads to a state of mental stagnation—time wasted on trivial videos or meme trends that, while momentarily entertaining, offer little intellectual or emotional nourishment. This resonates with how "brain rot" has become synonymous with mindless consumption, as highlighted by the popularity of content like the Skibidi Toilet series or "Ohio memes."
The algorithms powering these platforms exacerbate the issue. By prioritizing engagement over quality, they often push users toward increasingly trivial or sensationalist content. The result is a vicious cycle: the more we consume, the less we engage critically, contributing to a widespread sense of intellectual fatigue. This aligns with Casper Grathwohl’s observation that
"brain rot speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life."(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
2.3. The Role of Influencers and Meme Culture
Influencers and meme creators are key drivers of the "brain rot" phenomenon. Viral challenges, absurd humor, and content optimized for quick dopamine hits fuel a culture where triviality reigns. However, there is an ironic self-awareness among digital natives. Terms like "brain rot" are often used humorously, reflecting both complicity in and critique of these behaviors. This duality is evident in how Gen Z uses "brain rot" not only as a joke but also as a warning about the pitfalls of unchecked digital consumption.
2.4. Broader Implications on Mental Health
Beyond humor, the concept of "brain rot" carries serious implications for mental health. Studies and anecdotal experiences alike reveal that overexposure to low-quality digital content can lead to anxiety, reduced attention spans, and diminished critical thinking skills. Personally, I have noticed how prolonged exposure to such content leaves me feeling unfulfilled, prompting a need for digital detoxes. This reflects a broader societal shift toward mindfulness and intentionality as antidotes to "brain rot."
3. "Manifest": Aspirations in the Age of Self-Empowerment
Video on 'The Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year 2024 is...' on YouTube/Cambridge Dictionary: Click here.
3.1. Definition and Popularity
"Manifest," as Cambridge defines it, refers to using visualization and affirmation to imagine achieving desired goals. This modern sense of the word gained traction during the pandemic and has since permeated popular culture, particularly through platforms like TikTok. With nearly 130,000 lookups on the Cambridge Dictionary website, "manifest" reflects widespread interest in self-help practices and goal-setting.
3.2. Personal Observations of the Manifesting Trend
The concept of manifesting resonates with my observations of contemporary society’s obsession with self-improvement. Social media platforms are filled with influencers promoting techniques like the "3-6-9 method," which involves writing down one’s desires multiple times daily as a form of affirmation. This aligns with a broader cultural emphasis on personal empowerment, particularly among younger generations seeking to reclaim agency in uncertain times.
In my own experience, the practice of manifesting can be both inspiring and problematic. On one hand, it encourages a positive mindset and a focus on long-term goals. On the other, it risks fostering unrealistic expectations, particularly when unaccompanied by actionable steps. As Dr. Sander van der Linden warns, manifesting can veer into "magical thinking," promoting the illusion that mental rituals alone can reshape reality.
3.3. The Role of Celebrity Culture
The popularization of manifesting owes much to celebrity endorsements. Figures like Dua Lipa and Simone Biles credit their successes to visualization techniques, inspiring millions to adopt similar practices. While these endorsements can motivate individuals to pursue their dreams, they also contribute to a culture that sometimes overlooks the hard work and systemic factors underpinning success.
3.4. Balancing Optimism with Action
Manifesting’s dual nature—as both empowering and potentially misleading—reflects a critical tension in modern self-help culture. Personally, I find value in setting intentions and cultivating a positive outlook. However, I am mindful of the risks of over-reliance on visualization without taking tangible steps. This tension underscores the need for a balanced approach, combining optimism with practical action.
4. Comparative Reflections: "Brain Rot" and "Manifest"
4.1. Contrasting Themes
While "brain rot" critiques the passive consumption of digital content, "manifest" champions active engagement with one’s goals. Together, they represent two sides of modern life: the pitfalls of digital overload and the aspirations for self-empowerment. Both terms highlight the psychological and cultural shifts shaping contemporary society, from the challenges of maintaining mental well-being to the pursuit of personal growth.
4.2. Shared Resonance
Despite their differences, "brain rot" and "manifest" share a common thread: they both underscore the pervasive influence of digital culture. Whether through the mind-numbing effects of social media or the viral promotion of self-help trends, both words reflect how technology shapes our lives and identities. This duality resonates with my personal experiences, illustrating the need to navigate digital spaces with greater awareness and intentionality.
4.3. Societal Implications
The rise of these words also points to broader societal trends. "Brain rot" highlights the growing discourse around mental health and the need for mindful engagement with technology. Conversely, "manifest" reflects a desire for control and self-determination in an era marked by uncertainty. Together, they offer a linguistic snapshot of 2024’s cultural and psychological landscape, capturing both its anxieties and aspirations.
5. Conclusion
The selection of "brain rot" and "manifest" as Words of the Year for 2024 reflects the complexities of contemporary society. While "brain rot" critiques the intellectual and emotional toll of excessive digital consumption, "manifest" embodies the human desire for empowerment and self-improvement. Both words resonate deeply with my personal experiences, illustrating the challenges and opportunities of navigating a digitally driven world.
As we grapple with the dual forces of distraction and aspiration, these terms serve as reminders to seek balance—engaging meaningfully with technology while prioritizing mental health and actionable goals. In a world increasingly defined by its digital and psychological landscapes, "brain rot" and "manifest" stand as linguistic markers of our collective struggles and hopes.
Q.-3.|In what ways do these words influence or reflect the way we think, communicate, and interact?
Ans.
1. Introduction
Language is not just a tool for communication; it also shapes and reflects the ways we think and interact. Oxford’s 2024 Word of the Year, “brain rot”, and Cambridge’s choice, “manifest”, reveal much about contemporary society’s anxieties and aspirations. While "brain rot" captures growing concerns about the cognitive and emotional toll of digital media, "manifest" embodies the power of self-empowerment and the allure of visualization. This essay explores how these terms influence thought patterns, communication styles, and social interactions, shedding light on the complex dynamics of digital culture, mental health, and self-improvement.
2. "Brain Rot" and the Cognitive Costs of Digital Overload
2.1. "Brain Rot"
Originating in Henry David Thoreau’s critique of societal simplification in 'Walden' (1854), its modern resurgence highlights the challenges of living in an era dominated by algorithm-driven digital platforms.
2.2. Influencing the Way We Think
The term "brain rot" has reshaped how we perceive digital consumption, emphasizing the cognitive fatigue and emotional disconnection caused by mindless scrolling. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are designed to keep users engaged, often at the expense of critical thinking. Algorithms that prioritize viral, sensationalist, or trivial content intensify this effect, creating a cycle of passive consumption.
In my observations, the humor embedded in "brain rot" serves as both a coping mechanism and a critique. Among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the term is used ironically to describe the absurdity of content like Skibidi Toilet or "only in Ohio" memes. However, this self-awareness also underscores a deeper discomfort with the intellectual void such content creates.
As Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, notes,
"Brain rot speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life and how we are using our free time.”(“‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024”)
This shift in thought encourages a more mindful approach to media consumption, prompting individuals to question the value of their digital habits.
2.3. Shaping Communication
"Brain rot" has become a shorthand for discussing digital exhaustion and mental health, fostering a shared vocabulary for the challenges of online life. The term’s humorous tone allows for candid conversations about serious issues, such as anxiety and attention deficit, which are often linked to excessive screen time.
For instance, online communities frequently share posts joking about their "brain rot moments," creating a sense of solidarity in grappling with digital fatigue. This shared language not only normalizes these experiences but also sparks dialogue about the need for balance and intentionality in digital engagement.
2.4. Impact on Social Interactions
The growing discourse around "brain rot" influences how we interact with digital content and with each other. As mental health awareness rises, individuals are increasingly prioritizing "digital detoxes" and mindfulness practices. These shifts reflect a collective recognition of the need to combat the risks of online engagement, such as diminished attention spans and reduced interpersonal connection.
In my experience, acknowledging "brain rot" has fostered more intentional interactions, both online and offline. By recognizing the cognitive toll of trivial content, we can focus on cultivating meaningful exchanges and fostering deeper connections in a world saturated with distractions.
3. "Manifest" and the Pursuit of Self-Empowerment
3.1. Defining "Manifest"
"Manifest" in its modern sense refers to the act of using visualization and affirmation to imagine achieving desired goals, with the belief that doing so makes them more likely to happen. This concept, rooted in 20th-century spiritual movements, gained widespread popularity during the pandemic and continues to thrive on platforms like TikTok.
3.2. Shaping Thought Patterns
The rise of "manifest" reflects a cultural shift toward self-empowerment and goal-setting, particularly in uncertain times. In my observations, manifesting appeals to a deep-seated desire for control in a chaotic world. By encouraging individuals to focus on their aspirations, it fosters optimism and resilience.
However, the term also raises questions about the balance between visualization and actionable steps. While manifesting promotes positive thinking, critics like Dr. Sander van der Linden caution against its "magical thinking" approach, which can lead to unrealistic expectations. This duality highlights the need for critical engagement with self-help practices, ensuring they inspire action rather than complacency.
3.3. Transforming Communication
"Manifest" has transformed the language of self-help, infusing everyday conversations with terms like "manifest your dreams" or "visualize success." Celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Simone Biles have played a significant role in popularizing this rhetoric, sharing their own manifesting practices as keys to their achievements.
This trend has also influenced online communities, where manifesting techniques like the "3-6-9 method" are widely shared and discussed. These platforms serve as spaces for collective encouragement, enabling users to exchange tips, celebrate successes, and support one another in their pursuits.
3.4. Shaping Social Interactions
The concept of manifesting has redefined how individuals approach personal growth and community engagement. In my experience, the language of manifesting fosters a sense of agency and empowerment, encouraging individuals to take ownership of their goals. However, it also risks fostering a culture of superficial positivity, where challenges and systemic barriers are overlooked in favor of "good vibes only."
This tension is evident in online interactions, where discussions around manifesting often blur the lines between motivation and performative optimism. To navigate these complexities, it is essential to balance the aspirational elements of manifesting with practical strategies and realistic expectations.
4. Comparative Analysis: Bridging the Cognitive and Aspirational
4.1. Contrasting Perspectives
While "brain rot" critiques the passive consumption of digital content, "manifest" champions active engagement with personal goals. These contrasting themes reflect broader societal tensions: the struggle to maintain mental clarity in a world of distractions and the drive to reclaim agency through self-empowerment.
4.2. Shared Resonance
Despite their differences, both terms illuminate the profound influence of digital culture on our thought processes, communication styles, and social behaviors. Whether addressing the cognitive fatigue of endless scrolling or the motivational power of visualization, "brain rot" and "manifest" underscore the complex interplay between technology, language, and human agency.
4.3. Societal Implications
The rise of these words also speaks to the evolving discourse around mental health and self-improvement. As "brain rot" highlights the need for digital mindfulness, "manifest" emphasizes the importance of intentionality and goal-setting. Together, they offer a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities of navigating contemporary life.
5. Conclusion
The Words of the Year for 2024, "brain rot" and "manifest," serve as powerful reflections of modern society. By critiquing the intellectual toll of digital media and celebrating the aspirational potential of visualization, these terms influence the ways we think, communicate, and interact.
In a world increasingly defined by its digital and psychological landscapes, these words highlight the importance of balance—between consumption and creation, reflection and action, distraction and focus. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, "brain rot" and "manifest" remind us of the power of language to shape our perceptions, guide our behaviors, and inspire change.
Additional Resources:
Video on 'The Battle for Your Time: Exposing the Costs of Social Media | Dino Ambrosi | TEDxLagunaBlancaSchool' on YouTube/TEDx Talks: Click here.
References
1. Addley, Esther. “Celebrities make ‘manifest’ appear as 2024 word of the year.” The Guardian, 20 Nov. 2024, www.theguardian.com/media/2024/nov/20/celebrities-make-manifest-appear-as-2024-word-of-the-year. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.
2. Barad, Dilip. “Brain Rot and Manifest.” Dilip Barad | Teacher Blog, 13 Dec. 2024, blog.dilipbarad.com/2024/12/brain-rot-and-manifest.html. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.
3. “‘Brain rot’ named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.” Oxford University Press, 2 Dec. 2024, corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.
4. “‘Manifest’ is Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2024.” Cambridge, www.cambridge.org/news-and-insights/word-of-the-year-2024. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.
5. Taylor, Harry. “‘Brain rot’: Oxford word of the year 2024 reflects ‘trivial’ use of social media.” The Guardian, 1 Dec. 2024, www.theguardian.com/media/2024/dec/02/brain-rot-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.
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