Linguists have identified a new wave of overused and often misapplied words entering everyday English, with phrases like “look what literally landed” topping the list of verbal irritants. The expression, frequently used on social media and in casual conversation to announce an arrival or acquisition, has been criticised for its redundant and hyperbolic nature.
The Proliferation of 'Literally'
The word “literally” has long been a source of contention. Originally meaning “in a literal sense,” it is now commonly used as an intensifier for figurative statements. For example, saying “I literally died laughing” contradicts the word’s original meaning. According to Dr. Emily Patterson, a linguist at the University of Sydney, “The misuse of ‘literally’ has become so widespread that it now serves as an emotional amplifier rather than a marker of truth. This shift reflects a broader trend in language where precision is sacrificed for impact.”
'Landed' as a Ubiquitous Verb
The verb “landed” has similarly expanded beyond its aviation and fishing origins. Phrases like “look what landed on my doorstep” or “the project landed on my desk” are now common. While “landed” once implied a significant or unexpected arrival, its overuse has rendered it almost meaningless in many contexts. A recent survey by the Australian Linguistic Society found that 68% of respondents found the phrase “look what literally landed” annoying or excessive.
Impact on Communication
This trend is not merely a pet peeve; it has real consequences for clarity. When words are stripped of their specific meanings, communication becomes less efficient. “We rely on shared understanding of words to convey information quickly,” says Dr. Patterson. “When ‘literally’ can mean both ‘actually’ and ‘figuratively,’ listeners must infer intent from context, which slows down comprehension.”
Other Culprits
“Literally” and “landed” join a long list of overused terms including “amazing,” “iconic,” and “literally” itself. The phenomenon is not new, but social media accelerates the spread of such linguistic fads. “Platforms like TikTok and X reward dramatic language,” notes Dr. Patterson. “Users compete for attention with ever more exaggerated claims, and words like ‘literally’ become tools for that.”
Linguistic Evolution
Language change is natural, and some linguists argue that such shifts are signs of vitality rather than decay. However, the current trend toward hyperbole may be undermining nuance. “We risk losing the ability to express subtle distinctions,” warns Dr. Patterson. “If every arrival is ‘literally landing,’ how do we describe something truly surprising?”
