I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of language and the impact words like “crazy”, “insane” and “nuts” can have on the people around me. This article does a great job of highlighting why these terms are so problematic.  

After reading the article and reflecting on my use of these words, I have decided to try and eradicate these words from my vocabulary. I hope that after reading the suggested article you will decide to do the same!

From my own personal experience this shift has been a bit of a challenge. These words are so ingrained in our culture and vocabulary. Additionally, shifting habits takes time. Something that has helped me is referring to the thesaurus and looking up alternative (and more precise words). Not only am I not hurting people experiencing mental health issues but I am also sounding more intelligent these days, so it’s a win-win!

To make your life a bit easier I have compiled a list of the ways we use “crazy” and given you 100 alternative words. Let me know if you have any words to add!  #CancelCrazy

50 other words you can use instead of Crazy/Insane/Nuts:

People

Someone who acts or does things out of the norm

• Unique
• Different
• Odd

Someone who likes to have fun and party

• Boisterous
• Spontaneous
• Uninhibited

Someone who likes to act silly and make people laugh

• Absurd
• Nonsensical
• Ridiculous

Ideas

Something out of the norm

• Bizarre
• Innovative
• Eccentric

Something unbelieveable

• Implausible
• Inconceivable
• Unimaginable

Something creative

• Inventive
• Original
• Ingenious

Situations/Feelings

Really liking something (for example: “She’s crazy for Coco Puffs”, “He’s crazy for you!”)

• Adore
• Dig
• Fancy

Something you don’t like (for example:  “How do you like my new shoes?”, “Hmm, I’m not crazy about them.”)

• Dislike
• Disapprove
• Detest

When things are busy (for example: “Work has been crazy lately!”)

• Swamped
• Ridiculous
• Overwhelming

When something is too distracting (for example: “I can’t do work at home, it’s too crazy with all my sisters around”)

• Distracting
• Disturbing
• Irritating

Something that bothers or annoys you (for example: “It’s driving me crazy!”)

• Annoying
• Aggravating
• Bothersome

When something is really fun (for example: “That show was crazy!”)

• Amusing
• Enjoyable
• Entertaining
• Lively

Crazy as an Adverb

Crazy can mean very (for example: “The mall is crazy busy today”)

• Very
• Ridiculously
• Excessively

Expand your vocabulary and lets #CancelCrazy!