Why 'G20' is South Africa's word of the year for 2025

From global diplomacy to everyday conversation, the language South Africans used most in 2025 tells a clear story — and at the heart of it is “G20”, officially declared South Africa’s Word of the Year for 2025.

The announcement was made on December 23, by the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) in partnership with media research company Focal Points, following an extensive review of language trends across the country.

After considering a wide range of words, terms and expressions that shaped public discourse this year, “G20” emerged as the standout, beating other notable contenders including Government of National Unity, Tariffs, Femicide and the Madlanga Commission.

Its prominence was driven largely by South Africa hosting the G20 summit in 2025, a milestone event that dominated headlines and positioned the country firmly on the global stage.

PanSALB said the selection process began with a shortlist based on authentic language usage, after which Focal Points analysed keyword frequency from 1 January to December 2025, monitoring how often terms appeared across reputable print, broadcast and online media.

The analysis showed “G20” as the most frequently used keyword over the period, followed by Government of National Unity (GNU) and Tariffs, reflecting a year shaped by political change, economic pressures and international engagement.

While global affairs dominated mainstream news, youth-driven language took centre stage online. The Social Media Word of the Year was awarded to “Valid”, a Gen Z slang term used to signal approval, agreement or emotional support. Often used to affirm someone’s feelings, opinions or experiences, the word captured the tone of digital conversations in 2025.

It edged out Clock it, meaning to notice or call something out, as well as Hao khonahale — a Sipitori expression meaning “it’s not possible” or “impossible”, popularised by DJ Maphorisa — along with several other nominations reflecting the creativity and influence of youth and digital culture.

The South African Sign Language (SASL) Sign of the Year was awarded to the sign for “I Love You”, selected ahead of signs for so lekker, magnificent and Constitution.

According to PanSALB, the SA Word of the Year reflects the preoccupations of South Africans over a given period and serves as an important indicator of the country’s cultural and social landscape.

PanSALB is a constitutional body mandated to promote multilingualism in South Africa and to support the development and advancement of previously marginalised languages.

As 2025 draws to a close, the choice of “G20” underscores a year in which South Africa commanded global attention, while the rise of “Valid” highlights how everyday language continues to evolve, resonate and define the national mood.

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus