Is it just me, or is it simply a deliciously human thing to invent new English words, sprinkle them into conversation like confetti, and use them in formal settings with not a single shred of shame? Honestly, I make up words on the fly and fling them out there with full confidence and people actually ask me what they mean. Not because they think I’m mad, but because they assume I’m expanding my vocabulary like some rogue Oxford linguist. Then the truth leaks out: those words don’t actually exist. Not yet, anyway. Give it time, Merriam-Webster.

Just yesterday, Dustin and I were on one of our classic afternoon strolls. It was humid like, sauna-in-a-hedge humid and I muttered, “bloody hell, it’s clampy.” He paused, looked at me and asked, “Do you mean clammy?” Ugh. Rude. Don’t be so clever, luv. He’s the only one who dares challenge me. Everyone else? They nod along as if I’m some enchanting linguistic wizard with a PhD in “Wordery”. I also once used the word “chappy” to describe something sticky. It just felt right, you know? Don’t question the vibes.

Oh, and let’s not forget fantasy novels. I’ll be 200 pages deep into a magical realm where everyone’s name sounds like someone smashed their keyboard and called it canon. I confidently pronounce the names all wrong in my head every single time. Then I discuss the book with someone or hear a BookTok review, and they’ll say the names like it’s common knowledge, and I sit there, gobsmacked, like “Wait, that’s how you say it?!” Still, I continue to pronounce them my way because… consistency matters.

And yes, I’ve probably pronounced “pronounce” wrong in this entire blog. Twice. But who’s counting?

Anyway, I just needed to get this linguistic confession off my chest. If you’re like me making up words, mispronouncing fantasy names with flair, and doing it all with your chin up and zero regrets please let me know. It cannot only be me out here speaking like Shakespeare met a Gen Z wizard.

Wishing everyone a fabulous Monday! Tell me, what’s your favourite made-up word or mispronunciation you wear with pride? Drop it below so I don’t feel alone in this glorious mess.

Loads of luv,

Hannah x