Certain words are clogging academia. They are used in classroom discussions, five-page essays and academic journals, but nowhere else. In a normal conservation, they would sound absurd. I am not talking about specific terms in molecular biology or names of governmental systems. It is natural that every field of study should develop its own special words. I am talking about those words that are used to sound academic, to fluff up an empty idea or to achieve a word count. Here are some of the most common ones, all of which need to go.  

Juxtaposition: This list is in no particular order, but if it was, “juxtaposition” would be first. It was born in advanced English classes and has since seeped into every discipline. It means “contrast,” but, practically, it means, “I have nothing to say, yet my insatiable lust for attention compels me to speak anyways.” If you ever have nothing to say, the word “juxtaposition” can cover your empty thoughts.  

People use the word like this: “Yeah, well, the author is using this sort of juxtaposition, and he is, like, playing with this idea of a sort of concept of a duality between, you know, life and death — sort of Freudian, you know — and also this societal oppression, which, if you really think about, operates under the assumption that…[continues indefinitely].” If you have observed a contrast, please just say “contrast.” 

Henceforth: This word proves the maxim, “Not all synonyms are created equal.” It means “therefore,” but it only sounds appropriate from the mouth of someone who wears a powdered wig. I understand why someone may feel compelled to use it. After all, one could be writing an essay in which they have already used “therefore” and all its acceptable synonyms— “so,” “hence,” “thus,” “consequently” and “as a result.” Wanting to avoid repetition, you use “henceforth.” Do not. Just reuse “therefore.” It will be okay. 

Seemingly: What is the difference between a yellow school bus and a seemingly yellow school bus? I have no idea. Nor does anyone else. I offer $10 to anyone who can show me a sentence from which the word “seemingly” cannot be removed.  

Historicity: The upper echelon of historical intelligentsia loves debating the “metaphysical precepts” of this word, yet most of academia uses it to mean “historically accurate.” There is no need even for that. The Cambridge Dictionary provides an example: “The two theologians spent a lot of time debating the historicity of the events detailed in the Bible.” Unpretentious human English would state: “The two theologians debated whether the events in the Bible happened.” We all should do the same. 

Indeed: Like “henceforth,” although its meaning works, it is often too refined for the people who use it. If you wear a backwards hat, you should avoid using this word. Indeed, pretty much everyone should avoid it.