4 DEC 2023 · From Time Magazine's coveted Person of the Year to Oxford University Press's Word of the Year, the world is replete with "Of the Year" awards, each recognizing excellence, innovation, and cultural impact within their respective domains. These awards serve as a testament to human ingenuity, creativity, and the ever-evolving tapestry of our world. - Time Magazine's Person of the Year: Time Magazine's Person of the Year, established in 1927, is arguably the most prestigious of all "Of the Year" awards. The magazine selects an individual who has "most influenced the events of the year, for better or for worse." Past recipients include Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and Angela Merkel. - Oxford Dictionaries Word of the Year: Oxford Dictionaries' Word of the Year, introduced in 1942, captures the linguistic zeitgeist of the year. Words like "vape," "selfie," and "goblin mode" have graced the list, reflecting the evolution of language and its ability to shape our understanding of the world. - Pantone's Color of the Year: Pantone, a global color authority, unveils its Color of the Year, influencing fashion, design, and consumer trends. Colors like "Ultra Violet," "Living Coral," and "Very Peri" have captured the imagination and shaped the aesthetics of the year. Here are some annual awards that are a bit quirky…like - The Ig Nobel Prizes: The Ig Nobel Prizes, established in 1991, celebrate "achievements that make people laugh, and then think." Winners include scientists who discovered that cockroaches can survive being submerged in beer for weeks and researchers who proved that bears prefer to have sex downhill. - The Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest: The Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest, running since 1982, honors the worst opening sentence of a novel. Past winners include "The avocado, a ripe one, sat on the kitchen counter, oblivious to its fate as guacamole." - The Webby Awards: The Webby Awards, established in 1996, recognize excellence on the internet. Categories range from websites and social media to online film and video. Winners include The New York Times, BuzzFeed, and NASA. These awards, whether prestigious or unconventional, serve as a reminder of the diversity of human endeavors and the endless possibilities of creativity and innovation. They highlight the individuals, ideas, and trends that shape our world, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of time. Thanks for listening to Quiet Please. Remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts.

4 DEC 2023 · Word of the Year 2022: Riz In a celebration of linguistic creativity and cultural evolution, Oxford University Press (OUP) has named "riz" as its Word of the Year for 2022. This informal term, often used in British slang, refers to the ability to attract romantic or sexual partners, embodying the confidence and charisma associated with having charm and allure. Origins and Rise to Popularity The word "riz" is believed to have originated in British Romani traveler dialect, where it meant "a male companion or sweetheart." Its usage in mainstream British slang emerged in the early 2000s, particularly among young people, and gained wider recognition through social media and popular culture. The Allure of Riz The concept of "riz" goes beyond mere physical attractiveness; it encompasses the ability to captivate, charm, and exude an aura of desirability. It's about possessing the confidence and social skills to navigate romantic and social interactions with ease and success. Riz in the Age of Social Media In the era of online dating and social media, the term "riz" has taken on a new dimension. Individuals curate their online personas to project an image of charm and attractiveness, hoping to attract potential partners. However, true "riz" goes beyond digital personas; it's about the ability to connect genuinely and exude charm in real-world interactions. Impact and Significance The selection of "riz" as OUP's Word of the Year highlights the evolution of language and its ability to reflect the changing dynamics of modern life. It sheds light on the importance of interpersonal skills, confidence, and the ability to connect authentically in a world increasingly driven by online interactions. Thanks for listening to Quiet Please. Remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts.