Publisher Van Dale has canceled this year’s Word of the Year election due to intense reactions on social media. Instead, the publisher has chosen the word ‘polarization.’ “This year, the reactions have been even stronger than in previous years,” Van Dale stated.
“The election has been hijacked by various activist groups calling to vote or not vote for certain words. The discussions around these words have turned into an unpleasant societal debate, defeating the purpose of the election.” Van Dale typically nominates ten words that characterize the year, with this year’s nominees including ‘scheming scooter,’ ‘chip attack,’ and ‘transition regret.’ The publisher chose ‘polarization’ “in response to the intense reactions to this year’s election, which illustrate the spirit of the times.” The election in Belgium will proceed as planned.
Source: NOS