Top 5 Mispronounced Words of 2025 Revealed—How Did You Fare?

UPDATE: The Top 5 Most Mispronounced Words of 2025 have just been announced, revealing surprising trends in language across the globe. Compiled by Babbel and the Captioning Group, this list is a must-see for anyone wanting to enhance their spoken skills, especially in New York.

New Yorkers, renowned for their linguistic diversity, often grapple with challenging pronunciations. This year, as language evolves, five particular words have emerged as the most mispronounced, sparking curiosity and conversation.

Leading the list is Zohran Mamdani (zoh-RAHN mam-DAH-nee), the newly elected Mayor of New York, whose name has puzzled many since his election on November 4, 2025. This highlights the importance of getting names right in our communities, emphasizing personal connection and respect.

In the number two spot is Mounjaro (mown-JAHR-OH), a trending weight-loss drug that has gained attention and sparked discussions about health and wellness. Mispronouncing such a widely discussed term can lead to misunderstandings in conversations about personal health.

Coming in at number three is Louvre (LOOV-ruh), the iconic museum in Paris that recently made headlines due to a jewelry heist. The global fascination with the Louvre means that proper pronunciation is essential for travelers and art enthusiasts alike.

At number four, we have Acetaminophen (uh-SEE-tuh-MIH-nuh-fin), a common pain reliever that even public figures have stumbled over. Notably, former President Donald Trump struggled with this term earlier this year, illustrating that even the most familiar words can trip people up.

Finally, rounding out the list at number five is Alex Murdaugh (AL-ick MUR-dock), a former lawyer whose notorious case has made headlines for years. The complexities of this name reflect the intersection of legal issues and public interest, making it a topic of ongoing conversation.

As language continues to evolve, these mispronunciations highlight the importance of communication and the nuances of speech in diverse communities. How did you fare with these tricky words? The conversation is far from over, and your pronunciation skills could be put to the test as these terms gain more prominence.

Stay tuned for more updates on language trends and how they affect our everyday interactions. Engage with your friends and family—how many of these words have you gotten right? Share your thoughts on social media and join the discussion!