effortslanguage
Effortslanguage is a term used in sociolinguistics and discourse analysis to describe a register or style of speech that foregrounds effort, productivity, and perseverance. It is typically seen in contexts associated with work, self-improvement, and achievement culture. The term can refer to both spoken and written modes, including social media posts, corporate messaging, and self-help literature.
Origin and usage: The term is not widely standardized and has appeared in commentary and research as
Linguistic characteristics: Effortslanguage tends to use action-oriented vocabulary (push, grind, launch), evaluative adjectives (hardworking, diligent), imperatives
Contexts and functions: In workplaces, marketing, and online communities, effortslanguage can motivate, standardize expectations, and signal
Criticism and discussion: Critics argue that effortslanguage can mask structural barriers, promote burnout, and police behavior
See also: hustle culture, growth mindset, productivity discourse, linguistics of productivity.