A Wall Street Journal reader poll identified the most detested phrases in business, with "Leverage," "Reach Out," and "Circle Back" emerging as frequent irritants. The overwhelming response highlights a deep-seated frustration with empty corporate speak that replaces clear communication.

These buzzwords often serve as linguistic filler, obscuring meaning and avoiding direct accountability. In high-stakes negotiations or earnings calls, such vagueness can mask risks, complicate due diligence, and erode trust with investors and partners. Precision in language is a tangible asset in dealmaking.

The survey reveals a cultural fatigue with performative business language. Companies that prioritize clarity over cliché foster better internal alignment and external credibility. The message from readers is unambiguous: abandon the jargon and communicate with purpose.