The 2024 Word of the Year: Colesworth
Ongoing cost-of-living pressures and public outrage towards major supermarkets have culminated in the selection of the 2024 Word of the Year by the Australian National Dictionary Centre. This prestigious title has been awarded to "Colesworth," a cleverly blended word that references the dominant supermarket chains in Australia, Coles and Woolworths.
The Rise of Colesworth
Senior Researcher Mark Gwynn shed light on the reasoning behind the choice of Colesworth as the Word of the Year. He emphasized that the term has been predominantly used in negative contexts, symbolizing the immense power and market dominance held by these two supermarket giants. In recent times, the usage of Colesworth has experienced a significant surge, indicating a growing discontent among consumers.
Gwynn highlighted the prevailing sentiment among Australians, stating, "Aussies walk out of the supermarket with less after paying more, but then hear news of massive profits in the supermarket sector. And with official investigations into some of the pricing practices at Australia’s two largest supermarkets, it’s no wonder that ordinary shoppers have become cynical." The amalgamation of the names Coles and Woolworths into Colesworth succinctly encapsulates the essence of this negative perception of an unfair duopoly in the retail market.
The ACCC Report and Consumer Sentiment
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) released its interim report on the supermarket industry in September, revealing that Coles and Woolworths collectively account for over 67% of sales, solidifying their position as an oligopoly. The report delved into the feedback received from consumers, suppliers, and other stakeholders halfway through a 12-month inquiry, uncovering a growing disillusionment and lack of trust in the pricing strategies employed by these supermarkets.
Shortlisted Words and Notable Mentions
In addition to Colesworth, the shortlist for the 2024 Word of the Year featured a diverse array of terms encompassing politics, tax, and climate change. One noteworthy contender was "Raygun," inspired by the captivating performance of Australian breaker RayGun at the Olympic Games in Paris. The emergence of breaking as a sport at the Games catapulted RayGun to international fame, captivating audiences worldwide.
Other notable words in contention included "climate trigger," "ute tax," and "YIMBY" (Yes In My Backyard), reflecting the evolving linguistic landscape influenced by pressing societal issues.
Conclusion
The designation of Colesworth as the 2024 Word of the Year serves as a poignant reflection of the prevailing sentiments towards major supermarkets in Australia. As consumers navigate the challenges of rising costs and perceived unfair practices, the linguistic evolution encapsulated by Colesworth underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency in the retail sector.
FAQ
What is the significance of the term Colesworth?
Colesworth symbolizes the dominance of Coles and Woolworths in the Australian retail market and the negative perceptions associated with their market power.
How did RayGun impact the selection of the Word of the Year?
RayGun’s groundbreaking performance at the Olympic Games brought the term "breaking" into the spotlight, contributing to its inclusion in the shortlist for the 2024 Word of the Year.