If you're into language trends, you might enjoy this NY Times article.
According to the author, common use of the phrase "I'm obsessed with..." to describe one's interest in something, is a fairly new thing, mainly since 2008.
From the article:
“We think that things are not good unless we’re obsessed about them,” [English Professor Lennard J. Davis] continued. “If you’re only mildly interested in your partner, that’s not as hot as being obsessed about somebody. Being blandly detached and mild seems like a failure.” Contrary to our claims of obsession, Professor Davis believes that “the generation now is very low key — the emotions are flat — compared to movies from the ’50s, when people look sentimental.” Consequently, he said, “it inflates the language. We’re using this powerful word, but lowering the standard by having everybody be obsessed by everything.” (This jibes with a general culture of hyperbole on the Internet, where in an attempt to stand out from the noise, everything is the best. Thing. EVER!)
This seems spot on to me. I've certainly referred to some of my interests as "obsessions" lately, and I've also noticed the general increase in hyperbolic language in everyday speech.
How about you? Are you frequently "obsessed"? Or does overstated language bug you?
According to the author, common use of the phrase "I'm obsessed with..." to describe one's interest in something, is a fairly new thing, mainly since 2008.
From the article:
“We think that things are not good unless we’re obsessed about them,” [English Professor Lennard J. Davis] continued. “If you’re only mildly interested in your partner, that’s not as hot as being obsessed about somebody. Being blandly detached and mild seems like a failure.” Contrary to our claims of obsession, Professor Davis believes that “the generation now is very low key — the emotions are flat — compared to movies from the ’50s, when people look sentimental.” Consequently, he said, “it inflates the language. We’re using this powerful word, but lowering the standard by having everybody be obsessed by everything.” (This jibes with a general culture of hyperbole on the Internet, where in an attempt to stand out from the noise, everything is the best. Thing. EVER!)
This seems spot on to me. I've certainly referred to some of my interests as "obsessions" lately, and I've also noticed the general increase in hyperbolic language in everyday speech.
How about you? Are you frequently "obsessed"? Or does overstated language bug you?
