Moist. Mucus. Cyst. These are just a few examples of words people hate to hear. They make your skin crawl not only because of the gross visuals that come to mind, but also because of the way they ...

A swear word is like a linguistic punch in the nose. Virtually every language and culture has them—and virtually every language and culture formally disapproves of them. But that doesn’t stop them ...

Effective communication lies at the heart of human connection. It helps us collaborate with each other, solve problems and ...

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their ...

Big words, business jargon, and hyperbole intended to pump up your language only have the opposite affect. Check yourself before using any of these. There’s no such word as “irregardless.” The word ...

Why are some sounds easier to remember than others? A study on made-up words points to the harsh consonants that also dominate profanity.

Ryan McKay receives funding from the NOMIS Foundation. Shiri Lev-Ari does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, ...