8 new words in English for 2024

Language is constantly evolving and adapting to the needs of its speakers. The dynamic nature of language ensures its survival and relevance in a rapidly changing world. Each year, dictionaries select their Word of the Year. In 2023, the Oxford University Press chose rizz (noun), which means to have charisma. Other dictionaries chose hallucinate (verb), which is when an AI model produces incorrect or false information and AI (noun) which means artificial intelligence. These choices demonstrate that words and phrases are continually being added to the English language, so it’s important to keep up to date with them. Let’s have a look at 8 new words in English for 2024 you’ll likely hear a lot.

1. prompt (noun)

Although you might have heard this word before, it’s taken on a new meaning with the evolution of AI. 

• A prompt is an instruction given to an artificial intelligence programme, which determines or influences the content it generates.
  The prompt for the chatbot was to provide information on the latest tech trends.

Relevance
With the increasing use of AI, the term prompt has become essential in discussing how AI systems function and how to generate content with human input.

2. heat dome (noun)

• A heat dome is a persistent high-pressure weather system over a particular geographic area. It traps a mass of hot air below it.
  The heat dome resulted in record-breaking temperatures across the region.

Relevance
Discussions around climate change introduce new meteorological terms like heat dome. Many more will likely develop in the near future. 

3. free-range (adjective)

Though this term has been around for a while, it has only recently been added to the dictionary. 

• When something (e.g. chickens, eggs) is free-range, it means that animals are kept in natural conditions and can move around freely, rather than being kept in cages.
  I only buy free-range eggs. 
  

Relevance
There are more and more discussions about animal welfare, and knowing how animals are treated before they are consumed. 

4. situationship (noun)

• A situationship is a romantic or sexual relationship that is not considered to be formal or established.
  They were in a situationship for months before deciding to make their relationship official.
  

Relevance
This word reflects modern relationships beyond traditional labels.

5. figurehead (noun)

• A figurehead is a person who has an important-sounding title or position in a group or organisation but doesn’t have much real power or authority.
  The CEO was seen as a figurehead in the company, while the true decision-making power was with the board of directors.
  

Relevance
This term highlights the distinction between a symbolic leader and one with actual authority.

6. life admin (noun)

• The routine tasks and responsibilities in daily life, such as paying bills, making appointments or organising paperwork.
  Su Jin spent her Saturday morning tackling her life admin, from sorting through emails to scheduling appointments.

Relevance
This term helps explain the various mundane but necessary tasks that keep our lives running smoothly.

7. buzzed (adjective)

• When you’re buzzed, you’re excited.
  He was buzzed to hear the news. 
  

Relevance
Who doesn’t want a new English word to describe a good feeling?!

8. large language model / LLM (noun)

• An LLM is a computer program or artificial intelligence system capable of understanding and generating human-like text based on extensive language training and data.
  ChatGPT, a large language model (LLM), can generate coherent and contextually relevant responses to a wide range of text inputs.
  

Relevance
Large language models like ChatGPT are revolutionising the way we interact with technology and engage in natural language conversations, emphasising the importance of staying informed about cutting-edge language developments.

 

Language is a reflection of our ever-changing world, and as it evolves, it expands our ability to express new ideas and concepts. By staying up to date with emerging words, we further our communication and embrace the dynamic nature of language. 

You can find out more new English word entries here.

The fast-paced world of modern dating also brings with it new vocabulary. Read about new vocabulary specifically related to dating and relationships here.

What new English words or phrases would you add? Share your ideas below!

 

Activity

Match the beginning of the sentence with the correct ending.

1. The farm proudly advertised their free-range eggs, …	A … while the department heads had a more significant role in shaping academic policies.
2. Lucia and Joaquin’s relationship had turned into more of a situationship, …	B … they made it through to the quarter finals.
3. In the university, the headteacher was more of a figurehead, …	C … where they weren’t officially a couple, but they spent a lot of time together.
4. The prompt given to the AI system resulted in …	D … scorching temperatures across the region, making it unbearable to be outside.
5. During the summer, the heat dome caused …	E …  detailed explanations of complex topics, making it an invaluable resource for students and researchers.
6. The large language model (LLM) provided …	F …  highlighting their commitment to animal welfare.
7. The team were buzzed when …	G … a surprisingly creative story.
8. Walid spent most of his day doing life admin, …	H … such as organising his calendar and doing paperwork.

Answers

1 F
2 C
3 A
4 G
5 D
6 E
7 B

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Billie Jago is an ELT writer and teacher trainer specialising in digital learning materials and assessment resources. She has written for various well-known assessment titles, and writes items for high stakes exams such as the PTE, IELTS and Cambridge. Alongside materials writing, she delivers international teacher training sessions and is the founder of the ELTcpd professional development training platform and podcast. She is also the co-founder of the educational consultancy, OtterEducation.