Macquarie Dictionary's 2024 Top Word

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Post on Nov 26, 2024

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Macquarie Dictionary's 2024 Top Word: "Gaslighting" – My Journey to Understanding This Sneaky Word

Hey everyone! So, the Macquarie Dictionary just dropped their top word for 2024, and it's "gaslighting." I gotta admit, when I first saw it, I was like, "Huh? What's that?" I mean, I knew of the word, vaguely, but I didn't really get it. Turns out, it's way more common—and way sneakier—than I ever imagined. And honestly, I feel a little dumb for not really understanding it sooner.

What is Gaslighting, Anyway?

Gaslighting is basically when someone manipulates you into questioning your own sanity or perception of reality. It's subtle, insidious stuff, and it’s become, sadly, pretty prevalent. Think twisted reality, folks. It's not just about outright lying; it's about twisting things, denying events happened, making you feel crazy for remembering things a certain way. The Macquarie Dictionary defines it perfectly, I've since learned.

My "Gaslighting" Moment (Or, How I Got Played)

Okay, so, my own personal "gaslighting" moment wasn't some huge dramatic event. It was more like a slow burn. Remember that time I swore I put my keys in the blue bowl? Yeah, my husband, bless his heart, totally denied it. He insisted I was crazy, that I'd never put my keys there. We went back and forth for like, fifteen minutes, me getting more and more frustrated. He even started suggesting I needed more sleep! (Rude!).

Eventually, I found the keys... under a pile of mail on the kitchen counter. I was so mad, but then, I started to feel kind of foolish. Was I really that forgetful? Was I the problem? That, my friends, is the insidious nature of gaslighting. It plants seeds of doubt, making you question yourself.

Spotting the Signs – Actionable Advice

So, how can you avoid being gaslighted? Well, first things first: Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Don't let someone convince you otherwise. Second, keep detailed records. I started journaling key events, dates, times, to ensure that, should some future issues arise, I have tangible evidence. Note, I'm not suggesting everyone needs to do this, but if you feel consistently manipulated, having this can actually help you.

Finally, talk to someone you trust. Vent to a friend, a family member, or even a therapist. Sometimes, just talking it out can help you gain clarity and realize that, no, you're not crazy; you're being manipulated. And having someone else confirm your reality? It's super validating, especially if you’re dealing with some subtle gaslighting.

The Importance of Word Awareness in 2024

This isn't just about avoiding personal drama; it's about understanding a word that's creeping into our conversations and shaping our reality. The fact that "gaslighting" is Macquarie Dictionary's top word reflects a societal shift – a greater awareness of manipulative behaviors and the insidious nature of this particular type of manipulation. This awareness is empowering.

Beyond the Dictionary Definition: Understanding the Nuances

The Macquarie Dictionary definition is great, but understanding gaslighting requires more than a simple definition. You have to understand the subtle ways it can occur. It's a sneaky beast, but with awareness, you can better protect yourself and others. Let’s all try and be more aware of the subtle signs of gaslighting in our daily lives, whether it’s in a relationship, at work, or even with friends.

That's my two cents, anyway. What are your thoughts on "gaslighting" as the word of the year? Let me know in the comments below!