Introduction
The Fundación del Español Urgente (FundéuRAE) has announced “arancel” as its word of the year for 2025, taking precedence over “Generation Z.” The decision was unveiled during a ceremony graced by Queen Letizia.
About FundéuRAE
FundéuRAE is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the correct and consistent use of Spanish. Established in 2013, it brings together leading experts from the Real Academia Española (RAE) and other Spanish-speaking countries. The organization aims to foster the unity and clarity of the Spanish language through its publications, workshops, and online resources.
The Word of the Year: “Arancel”
“Arancel” is a Spanish noun that refers to a tariff or customs duty. The term gained prominence in 2025 due to its frequent use in discussions surrounding international trade, economic policies, and globalization. FundéuRAE’s selection of “arancel” highlights its relevance and increasing importance in contemporary Spanish-speaking discourse.
Reasons for Choosing “Arancel”
- Trade Agreements: With the ongoing negotiations of free trade agreements, such as the EU-Mercosil pact, “arancel” has become a crucial term in understanding the implications of these accords.
- Economic Policies: Governments worldwide have implemented new economic policies in response to the global pandemic, with tariffs playing a significant role in shaping these strategies.
- Globalization: As global trade continues to evolve, “arancel” remains a vital concept in comprehending the complexities of international commerce.
Overshadowing “Generation Z”
“Generation Z,” referring to those born between 1997 and 2012, was previously considered for FundéuRAE’s word of the year. However, the organization decided to prioritize “arancel” due to its widespread usage and significance in current events. Despite this, understanding the characteristics and impact of Generation Z remains essential for comprehending societal shifts.
Who are Generation Z?
Generation Z, also known as Gen Z, comprises individuals born after Millennials (Gen Y) and before Generation Alpha. They are digital natives, having grown up with the internet and advanced technology. Gen Z is known for its diverse backgrounds, progressive values, and unique perspectives on issues such as climate change, social justice, and mental health.
Impact of Generation Z
Gen Z’s influence is evident in various aspects of society, including consumer behavior, political engagement, and cultural trends. Their impact is shaping industries such as entertainment, education, and technology. Despite not being the word of the year, Generation Z’s significance cannot be overlooked.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is FundéuRAE? FundéuRAE is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the correct and consistent use of Spanish.
- What does “arancel” mean? “Arancel” is a Spanish noun referring to a tariff or customs duty.
- Why was “arancel” chosen as the word of the year? “Arancel” gained prominence in 2025 due to its frequent use in discussions surrounding international trade, economic policies, and globalization.
- What is Generation Z? Generation Z, or Gen Z, refers to individuals born between 1997 and 2012. They are digital natives with progressive values and unique perspectives on societal issues.
- How does Generation Z impact society? Gen Z’s influence is evident in consumer behavior, political engagement, cultural trends, and various industries such as entertainment, education, and technology.
