Riga, January 26, 2026 – The Riga Latvian Society has officially declared the “word,” “non-word,” and “winged saying” of 2025, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolving language and cultural zeitgeist of Latvia. The selections, announced today, reflect current societal trends and linguistic shifts observed throughout the past year.
A Reflection of the Times
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The annual tradition aims to capture the essence of the Latvian language as it’s actually used, not just how it *should* be used.
The chosen terms often spark debate and provide a unique lens through which to view the cultural and social landscape.
This year’s selections highlight a blend of new coinages, repurposed terms, and enduring expressions that resonated with the Latvian public. The process involves careful evaluation of language usage across various media, including news, social media, and everyday conversations.
The 2025 Word of the Year
The “word of the year” for 2025 is “atbildība” (responsibility). According to the Riga Latvian Society, this term gained prominence due to increased discussions surrounding individual and collective accountability in the face of global challenges. The selection committee noted a surge in its usage across political discourse, environmental debates, and social commentary.
The 2025 Non-Word of the Year
In a somewhat ironic twist, the “non-word of the year” is “infliacija” (inflation). While technically a valid word, the committee chose it to highlight the pervasive anxiety and frustration surrounding rising prices and economic instability. The term became a constant presence in news headlines and household conversations throughout 2025.
The 2025 Winged Saying of the Year
The “winged saying of the year” is “Viss būs labi” (Everything will be alright). This phrase, often used as a comforting reassurance, gained renewed significance in 2025 as a symbol of resilience and hope amidst uncertainty. The committee observed its frequent use in both formal and informal settings, reflecting a collective desire for optimism.
A Look at the Selection Process
The selection process is rigorous, involving a panel of linguists, cultural experts, and journalists. The committee analyzes a vast corpus of text and audio data to identify emerging trends and patterns in language usage. The final selections are based on a combination of quantitative data and qualitative assessment.
- “Atbildība” (responsibility) was chosen as the word of the year, reflecting a focus on accountability.
- “Infliacija” (inflation) was designated the non-word of the year, symbolizing economic anxieties.
- “Viss būs labi” (Everything will be alright) emerged as the winged saying of the year, representing hope and resilience.
- The selections are based on a comprehensive analysis of language usage throughout the year.
The Riga Latvian Society’s annual language selections offer a valuable snapshot of Latvian society and its evolving cultural landscape. They serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of language and its power to reflect and shape our understanding of the world.
