12 Annoying Words and

Phrasesby Jay Croft

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#1 - Irregardless

It’s gaining some acceptance because it’s such a common mistake. But that’s not much of a reason.

Please.

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# 2 - Totally destroyed

It either was or it wasn’t.

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# 3 – Utilize

Because “use” wasn’t available?

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# 4 - Ironic

Do not use to describe a bummer or a drag or something that really isn’t ironic at all.

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#5 – Emergency situation

Favored by TV reporters at apartments that hours ago were the site of a fire or shooting. An emergency is a

situation.

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#6 - Innovative

It’s probably not.

Really.

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#7 At the end of the day

Unless you’re singing in “Les Miz.”

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#8 – It is what it is.

I used this phrase once as an experiment, just to play with a tired phrase and see what I could learn from it.

So, fine.

Everybody gets one.

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#9 – 12 noon or 12 midnight

Redundant and repetitive.

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#10 - Literally

As in, “I mean, there were a million people in line at the ATM – literally!”

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#11 - Iconic

Old movie stars or rock singers used to be “legendary.” Then they became “iconic.” And now

that word has filtered down to describe anyone of any note at all. Use sparingly. If at all.

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#12 – Very unique

Or totally unique or one-of-the-most unique…

Whatever!

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