Musician Charli XCX made the term famous this summer: “brat” was named Collins Dictionary’s word of the year. How linguistic experts explain the cultural phenomenon.
London.
Musician Charli XCX has inspired one of the words of the year in her native Britain. The Collins dictionary chose “brat“. The term has a new definition for a self-confident, independent and hedonistic attitude, according to the English Dictionary website. Inspired by Charli XCX’s album title, “brat” has become one of the most talked about terms in 2024.
“Brat” is not only a hugely successful album, but a cultural phenomenon that has resonated throughout the world, the British wrote. The expression “brat summer” has established itself as an aesthetic and attitude towards life. The word “brat” stands for both self-acceptance and rebellion. Until now, the word in English has been used to describe a spoiled brat.
The American election campaign also arrived
Britain’s Charli XCX, whose real name is Charlotte Aitchison, has sparked a social media trend with the title of her sixth album. The movement is about self-love, positive body image and a style that represents a move away from the “clean girl” trend, which promoted things like yoga, early bedtimes and slicked hair, the news agency wrote British PA.
The term has also found its way into the US presidential election campaign. Charli XCX posted about Democratic candidate Kamala Harris: “Kamala IS brat.” According to her explanation, “Brat” represents a chaotic girl who likes to party, sometimes says something stupid, but is confident and can overcome defeat. Harris’ team took the image and mimicked the album cover style on social media accounts temporarily. (dpa)
Interview: The Rise of “Brat” – A Cultural Phenomenon
Participants: Time.news Editor and Linguistic Expert Dr. Emily Carter
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Carter. It’s wonderful to have you here today to discuss the recent cultural phenomenon surrounding the word “brat,” which was named Collins Dictionary’s word of the year. How did this term evolve in its meaning, particularly with its new definition reflecting a self-confident, independent attitude?
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! The evolution of “brat” is fascinating. Traditionally, it had a negative connotation, often referring to a spoiled child. However, with the influence of Charli XCX and her album titled “brat,” it has transformed into something that embodies self-acceptance and rebellion. This shift reflects broader societal changes where traditional norms are being challenged, particularly around personal expression and identity.
Editor: Charli XCX seems to have tapped into something significant with her music and the aesthetic of “brat summer.” In what ways do you think her work has influenced pop culture and language?
Dr. Carter: Charli XCX has established herself as a voice of a generation, particularly in how she blends music with themes of empowerment and self-expression. The phrase “brat summer” encapsulates a lifestyle and mindset that many young individuals are embracing. It’s all about enjoying life, being unapologetically yourself, and rejecting societal constraints. This aesthetic has resonated on social media, further propelling the term into everyday conversation.
Editor: The idea of “brat” representing both self-acceptance and rebellion is intriguing. Do you see this as part of a larger trend in language where emerging words reflect cultural shifts, especially among younger generations?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely! Language is always evolving, and contemporary slang often mirrors the values and attitudes of the time. The rise of terms like “brat” indicates a shift towards individuality and authenticity, particularly among younger people who prioritize personal freedom. As cultural norms shift, so does the language we use, often in ways that challenge existing expectations about behavior and identity.
Editor: Speaking of cultural shifts, do you think the widespread acceptance of the term “brat” could lead to more words being redefined in similar ways?
Dr. Carter: That’s a very real possibility! As society continues to evolve, many terms may find new meanings that reflect contemporary attitudes. The fashioning of language allows communities to assert their identity and beliefs, deconstructing old narratives. This dynamic can lead to a rich tapestry of expressions that celebrate diversity in experience and perspective.
Editor: It’s clear that the term “brat” has become more than just a word; it symbolizes a cultural movement. What implications does this have for future generations and their communication?
Dr. Carter: It suggests that future generations will continue to reshape language to fit their realities. Communication will likely become even more nuanced, with slang and cultural references playing significant roles in connection and identity. The acceptance of terms like “brat” indicates a growing recognition that language is fluid and can be a tool for empowerment and self-definition.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights on this fascinating topic. It’s exciting to see how language, culture, and music intertwine to shape our understanding of identity.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how the language continues to evolve in connection with cultural phenomena.