The term G20 has been crowned South Africa’s Word of the Year for 2025.
The announcement was made on Tuesday (23 December) by the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) in partnership with media research company Focal Points.
According to PanSALB, G20 emerged as the most prominent word in South African media during 2025, largely driven by the country hosting the G20 summit. The term outperformed other strong contenders, including Government of National Unity, Tariffs, Femicide and the Madlanga Commission.
Valid top social media word
PanSALB said the selection followed a rigorous process that focused on authentic language usage across the country. Focal Points analysed keyword frequency from January to December 2025, tracking usage in reputable print, broadcast and online media.
“The shortlisted words reflect the major political, international and social issues that shaped South Africa in 2025,” PanSALB said.
In the Social Media category, the Gen Z slang word Valid was named South African Social Media Word of the Year. The term, commonly used to express approval or agreement, beat a shortlist that included Clock it, Hao khonahale, Nonchalant, Nodolozana and Ama1k.
PanSALB explained that Valid is often used online to affirm someone’s feelings, opinions or experiences, highlighting how youth and digital culture continue to influence everyday language.
Top SASL sign announced
The South African Sign Language (SASL) Sign of the Year was awarded to the sign for I Love You, which competed against signs for so lekker, magnificent and Constitution.
PanSALB said the annual Word of the Year initiative serves as a reflection of what occupies South Africans’ minds during a specific period and offers insight into the country’s evolving cultural and social landscape.
