Fascinating Phrases of 2025

A single sentence with perfect craft can capture readers, jolting them awake from their complacency. Throughout the year, the Discourse team at Business Insider has produced countless statements shedding light on gripping and vital topics in business and technology.

Here are some that stood out to us most, captivating us with their charm and urgency. These sentences capture the essence of complex stories about the decline and possible revival of loyalty in workplaces, the shift in work habits even among the most dedicated, and the cautious preparation by AI experts for an impending technological revolution. These words come from both our team and a variety of voices, from driven young entrepreneurs to bankers, scholars, and even Steve Bannon. Together, they form a patchwork that resembles a narrative poem.

As we look forward to 2026, may we continue to encounter more of these unexpected, delightful, and thought-provoking sentences that remind us of the wonder of being alive.

A simple claim: navigating the dating scene as a lesbian in Japan is next to impossible.

"Remaining content in academia as a man is a fleeting pursuit."

An 'ew' expression has transformed into a rallying cry.

In a world where everything feels fraudulent, becoming part of the deceit doesn't seem so unjustifiable.

Life is like a gambling den, where you're either involved in the bets or watching from the sidelines.

"You've got a problem when the dogs refuse to eat the canine meal."

Gen Z might be the generation most misunderstood throughout history. Regardless of opinions, this cohort obsessed with avocado toast and brunch is now taking charge. Many in the millennial bracket find this disconcerting.

Amidst my preparation, I overlooked the fact that my narrative might stir up discontent in another group: Gen X.

The era of "OK, boomer" memes might have passed, but the sentiment lives on.

"I am more drawn to her personality than the craft of her journalism," confessed a lawyer who requested to be known as "attractive, accomplished, and Jewish."

"He's engaged in feudal-tech dominance. We advocate for humankind." Like Musk, Bannon shakes up systems but doesn't challenge the divine.

"People retire only to succumb to a sedative routine."

While Kelly Starrett was busy tallying his morning arousals, Johnson was comparing his nighttime ones to those of his son.

Bryan Johnson, a centimillionaire and influencer on longevity practices, positions himself cross-legged on a white loveseat, his knees lightly touching those of Kate Tolo, his youthful business confidante and present guide on a psychedelic retreat.

What characterizes a commendable wealthy person? "In my childhood, Disney Channel villainized wealth in movies like 'Richie Rich.' It made me think, ‘Is that us? Are we the antagonists?’"

"These individuals advocate for drug legalization, unconventional hairstyles, and various freedoms commonly frowned upon. No secret what they endorse."

Result: a humorous instance of 'eggs-cuse-flation'.

Submitting job applications in 2025 feels akin to launching your cv into an abyss.

By week’s end, many employees treat the work aspect of remote jobs with irony.

There's an innate tranquility associated with stepping onto an airplane.

In the unpredictable landscape of contemporary dating, is owning a home the new emblem of security for Gen Z?

The most unnerving sight was a flannel shirt turned into window drapery, a bizarre horror dubbed by my best friend as The Shirtain™.

"To me, 'TBPN' manifests proof of paradise."

"Hosting extravagant parties, amidst the urgency of life, begs the question—What's a bolder, more extravagant event we can execute now?"

Business Insider's Discourse articles provide a lens on pertinent issues, enriched by informed analysis and expert opinions.