Tag: BuzzWhack

As some of you may know, I’m a big fan of BuzzWhack, the site that has fun with buzzwords. What’s a buzzword? BuzzWhack defines it as “a usually important-sounding word or phrase used primarily to impress laypersons.”

Some are just plain dumb, corporate babble such as “operationlize” and “targeted completion date.” Other buzzwords are clever and hilarious such as “ticker shock,” “kudo loop” and “seagull platform.”

Inspired by a situation I’ve witnessed all too often, I’ve come up with a buzzword and submitted it to BuzzWhack for consideration.

plate snatcher: A waitperson who prematurely takes your plate during a business or social lunch, and then promptly asks if you would like dessert.

Ever happen to you or someone you’ve lunched with?

For a chuckle, visit BuzzWhack. You can even sign up for the Buzzword of the Day.

(BUZZWHACK WARNING: If you can use more than three buzzwords in a single sentence while keeping a straight face, this site is not for you.)

actionable: A legal term that’s been co-opted by marketers, consultants and techies. In the legal world, it’s “giving cause for legal action,” such as a lawsuit. Now it’s anything you can take action on. “After analyzing your production line, we recommend these four actionable steps.”
Nominated by Max Matthews

OK, so this train left the station long ago, but what do you think of the buzzword “actionable”? I don’t care for it. It’s corporate speak. Silliness.

“Action” is a perfectly good noun that’s been around for centuries. Why turn it into an adjective?

(I know my objection is futile.)

For a chuckle, visit BuzzWhack. You can even sign up for the Buzzword of the Day.

What’s a buzzword? BuzzWhack defines it as “a usually important-sounding word or phrase used primarily to impress laypersons.” (Like “actionable.”)