Corporate jargon is everywhere, clogging up meetings and emails with vague, tired expressions. While these terms might once have felt fresh, they now obscure meaning, stifle clear communication, and frustrate employees. Here are five corporate phrases to drop in 2025, along with better ways to express the same ideas.
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights analytical thinking, creativity, and curiosity as top skills employers value. Yet, saying “don’t get in the weeds” discourages the detailed focus needed to build these abilities. Instead of shutting down deep dives, encourage precision while connecting it to the broader goal. Try: “Let’s focus on the key points and tie them to our strategy.”
Similarly, “take it offline” often pops up in meetings to sidestep tangents. While the intent is to keep the agenda on track, it can feel dismissive, signaling that a topic or person isn’t worth the group’s time. Research from Harvard and the University of California, San Francisco shows feeling heard reduces burnout and aids adaptation during uncertainty. Replace it with: “Let’s discuss this one-on-one after the meeting” to show respect and keep momentum.
Next, “bandwidth” often masks a simple truth: you’re too busy. Used in phrases like “I don’t have the bandwidth for that,” it borrows a tech term to dodge directness. People aren’t networks—be honest instead. Leaders should welcome transparency, so swap it for: “I don’t have the time/resources right now.” This opens a chance to discuss priorities or support needs.
The phrase “let’s not boil the ocean” aims to curb overambition, urging focus on manageable tasks. But it often halts useful brainstorming about options and scale. Streamlining is smart, but don’t squash discussion. Say: “Let’s prioritize and tackle this step by step” to keep ideas flowing while staying practical.
Finally, communication is key, yet jargon muddles it. Post-World War II, corporate lingo blended military and business speak, but today it alienates newcomers and blurs intent. Ditching these cliches for clear, direct language fosters better understanding, curbs burnout, and builds stronger teams. Next time, pause and choose words that say what you mean—your colleagues will thank you.