Buzz
Almost everyone agrees that grammar enthusiasts are, by nature, quite particular—it’s practically in their title! Linguists, writers, copy editors, line editors, and other language aficionados (yes, the nerdy types!) have a very specific approach to their craft. When it comes to language and word usage, they reign supreme. If you have any of these individuals in your life, you’re well aware of their strong opinions about dictionaries. For most of us, it’s a tedious chore, but for them, it’s utterly captivating.
Today, we’re diving into a list that’s sure to irritate them a bit. Below, you’ll discover the fascinating stories behind ten words that grammar purists and linguists argue shouldn’t exist. Some are slang terms that have never made it into dictionaries or official word lists. Others are peculiar words that have somehow entered everyday language without formal recognition. But here’s the twist: over time, dictionaries have acknowledged these words as legitimate entries. And regardless of what the grammar sticklers in your life might say, that’s all the validation we need!
10. Nother
You’ve likely used the word “another” countless times. And chances are, you’ve also heard someone say “a whole nother” to emphasize a completely different thing, category, or group. It’s a bit quirky, but people have embraced it to highlight distinctions or exaggerate comparisons. Grammar purists, however, will vehemently argue that “nother” isn’t a real word and that “a whole nother” is grammatically incorrect. They’ll insist that inserting “whole” into the middle of “another” is a linguistic crime. But hey, language evolves, doesn’t it?
However, grammar enthusiasts and dictionary defenders might not like this: “nother” is indeed correct. Yes, you read that right. The term “nother” first appeared in the 14th century and was used interchangeably with “another.” By the 19th century, it had gained popularity as a standalone word, functioning as a synonym for its close relative. Today, it’s officially recognized in the dictionary. While it’s not as widely used as “another,” and you might still raise a few eyebrows if you use it, you can confidently refer to the dictionary to prove its legitimacy.
9. Impactful
For a long time, “impactful” wasn’t considered a real word. Then came the 1960s, a transformative era. During this period and the late 1950s, advertising agencies began to dominate American culture, leaving a lasting influence. These agencies not only revolutionized marketing strategies but also crafted a new vocabulary to describe their campaigns and achievements. One of the most enduring terms they introduced was “impactful.” Some might even argue that their decision to create this word was, well, impactful.
In essence, advertising agencies took the word “impact” and tweaked it to describe the effectiveness of their campaigns. Wanting to highlight the significant influence their work had on the public, they coined “impactful” and popularized it in meetings and discussions. Before long, the term spread beyond corporate settings and into everyday language. Today, many things are described as “impactful,” though grammar purists might still cringe at its usage—perhaps even delivering an “impactful” retort to those who use it.
8. Prolly
In the realm of texting and online communication, “prolly” has largely replaced “probably,” especially among younger generations. For older folks, “prolly” feels like a lazy abbreviation, and many of us aren’t fans. However, younger people embrace it wholeheartedly, using it alongside other slang like OMG and LOL. The surprising part? “Prolly” has gained so much traction that it’s now officially recognized in the dictionary.
Interestingly, the first recorded use of “prolly” as a substitute for “probably” dates back to the 1940s. Back then, as now, it served as a shortened version of the word, saving time and simplifying spelling. Even more astonishing, the Oxford English Dictionary now acknowledges its widespread use and understanding, granting it a formal entry. After nearly a century of use, it’s safe to say that grammar purists should probably—or prolly—accept that this term isn’t going anywhere.
7. Snuck
When describing someone sneaking around in the past tense, the correct term is “sneaked.” However, a vast number of people believe “snuck” is the proper word to use. This belief has persisted for centuries, leading to “snuck” finally being accepted into the dictionary. While “sneaked” remains technically correct, “snuck” has been used as the past tense of “to sneak” since the late 19th century, and its popularity has only grown.
After decades of debate, dictionary compilers have conceded to public usage. Grammarians and linguists initially resisted, as no other verb in English shifts from -eak to -uck in its past tense form. Yet, “snuck” managed to sneak its way into mainstream dictionaries, much to the dismay of grammar enthusiasts. Today, it’s officially recognized, even if it continues to irk traditionalists.
6. Madded & Madder
Here’s a two-for-one deal that’s bound to annoy grammar enthusiasts twice as much. Or should we say it’ll make them even madder? Language purists and linguistic experts will insist that “madded” isn’t a valid word. Sure, you can feel “mad” or be “maddened” by something, but “madded”? Wrong again! It turns out “madded” is indeed a legitimate word. If you fail to complete a task at work, your colleagues might just get “madded” by it. Yes, it’s real!
In the same category, there’s another word that has caused confusion for years: “madder.” Back in 2013, Barack Obama faced criticism from grammar sticklers and political opponents after using “madder” in a speech. Many argued he should have said “more mad” instead. However, a quick check of the dictionary confirms that “madder” is perfectly valid. Obama was correct, even if it sounded odd to some. And even if the debate continues to rage on!
5. Orientate
While many words on this list spark debate, few ignite the fury of grammar purists like “orientate.” After all, “orient” and “orientation” are already established words. So, why should “orientate” exist? That’s the argument from dictionary enthusiasts, at least. The catch? “Orientate” is, in fact, a recognized word. Despite their protests, grammar snobs are on the losing side of this battle. The word’s history stretches back over two centuries, making it a long-standing part of the English language.
Interestingly, “orientate” first emerged among British English speakers in the 1840s. It functioned then as it does now—as a verb meaning to find one’s bearings or direction. In the United States, “orient” remained the preferred term, but the British continued to use “orientate.” Over time, the two words became interchangeable, and “orientate” eventually crossed the Atlantic. Today, it’s recognized on both sides of the ocean, much to the dismay of grammar purists.
4. Gonna
What if we revealed that “gonna” is, in fact, a legitimate word? How would you react? Would you argue, correct us, or simply sigh and accept the truth? Not only is “gonna” a word (apologies to the purists), but it has been since 1806! This casual contraction of “going to” was first officially recorded in a dictionary that year. Linguists and dictionary compilers of the time recognized its common usage and decided to formalize it.
In recent years, “gonna” has gained even more prominence with the rise of texting and social media. People often shorten words to keep messages concise, and “gonna” fits perfectly into this trend. However, its history predates modern technology by centuries. Even in 1806, when texting didn’t exist, “gonna” had already earned its place in the dictionary.
3. Conversate
Not only does “conversate” have a legitimate entry in every recognized dictionary, but it also boasts a history spanning over 200 years. Alongside its variants “conversating” and “conversated,” this verb meaning “to converse” has a surprisingly rich and lengthy background. Its first documented appearances in newspapers and publications date back to the early 1800s, and from there, it steadily gained traction in our language.
While copy editors might cringe at its usage—after all, why use “conversate” when “converse” or even “talk” suffices?—it remains a valid word. It might sound like something a 12-year-old would use to impress classmates during a book report, but that doesn’t negate its legitimacy. Whether or not you choose to use it in everyday conversation, “conversate” is undeniably a real word.
2. Ginormous
You might think “ginormous” is a playful term coined by millennials to describe something extremely large. However, its origins actually trace back to the World War II era. That’s right—this seemingly modern word has been around since the 1940s.
Despite its playful tone, “ginormous” isn’t a recent invention. Its first documented use dates back to 1942, where it emerged as a humorous blend of “gigantic” and “enormous.” While it may have started as an exaggerated, tongue-in-cheek term, it quickly gained popularity. Today, “ginormous” is officially recognized in dictionaries, whether you approve of it or not.
1. Anyways
Modern English teachers and copy editors might insist that “anyway” is the only correct form, but “anyways” has a rich history. Surprisingly, “anyways” has been in use for over 800 years, with its origins tracing back to the 13th century. Over time, it gradually lost popularity, and English speakers began favoring “anyway” to shift topics.
Today, most dictionaries recognize both “anyway” and “anyways” as valid synonyms. While “anyway” is more commonly used globally, “anyways” is particularly popular in North America. Regardless of where you are, “anyways” is a legitimate word, and if anyone challenges you, a quick dictionary check will prove them wrong.
+ BONUS: Firstly
As a bonus, let’s address “firstly.” While “first” is often preferred when listing items, “firstly” isn’t incorrect. Technically, words like “first,” “second,” and “third” function as both adjectives and adverbs, making “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” somewhat redundant. However, using “firstly” isn’t grammatically wrong, even if it feels a bit awkward.
To add further emphasis, some dictionaries argue that “firstly” is redundant when introducing a list or numbered points. They actively advise using “first” instead, claiming “firstly” complicates things unnecessarily. However, due to its widespread use over the years, dictionaries eventually relented and included it as a valid entry. Today, “firstly” appears in every reputable English dictionary. While it may not be the preferred choice, it’s technically correct—and being technically correct is still correct!
