The most annoying and hated word/phrases of the year

Language lovers, however, had to be delighted, because it meant they were one step closer to never again hearing the phrase “fiscal cliff.” That term topped Lake Superior State University’s annual list of banished words.

“Makes me want to throw someone over a real cliff,” a poll respondent told the university.

Those language lovers may be less enthused about the ambivalence and exhaustion some feel over the deal, though. Fed-up politicos may feel compelled to say, “Whatever,” in response to the bill. That’s the word that topped Marist College Institute for Public Opinion’s 2012 list of the most annoying phrases.

“Whatever” also was the most annoying word in Marist’s 2011 poll.

The only word on Marist’s list that would qualify as a buzzword is “Twitterverse,” which 9 percent of respondents say they hated more than any other term.