- Categories:
- Cultural
- Tags:
- AmericanCulturalEducational
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Week starting with the 1st Sunday of March
- Holiday emoji:
- 🗣️
Words Matter Week arrives every first full week of March, urging us to reflect on the profound impact of our language. This observance encourages thoughtful communication, fostering empathy and understanding in all interactions. Take time this week to choose your words carefully, practice active listening, and engage in constructive dialogue.
Want to sponsor Words Matter Week? Learn how
Expected Words Matter Week Deals
For Words Matter Week, expect a focus on educational resources and community initiatives rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the National Communication Association and Toastmasters International often promote workshops and free online guides for improving public speaking and interpersonal communication. Look for special offers on writing tools from companies like Grammarly and language learning apps. Educational publishers may offer discounts on books about rhetoric, linguistics, and effective communication. Non-profits dedicated to media literacy, such as The Poynter Institute, will share resources to help discern truthful and impactful language. We will update this page with confirmed live programs and resources as March approaches.
Platform Guide for Words Matter Week
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #WordsMatterWeek. Share insights on professional communication, leadership language, and workplace empathy.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #WordsMatterWeek. Join real-time discussions on the power of language, media literacy, and positive online discourse.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WordsMatterWeek. Post community challenges, share educational articles, or host a live Q&A on effective communication.
Words Matter Week Hero
Noah Webster
History of Words Matter Week
Words Matter Week is spearheaded by the National Association Of Independent Writers & Editors (NAIWE) and has been celebrated as far back as 2008 when the first one was observed. NAIWE is a professional association for all publishing professionals and its mission is to help members succeed with its unique focus on creating multiple streams of income.
The National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE) was founded in 2007. It was originally called the National Association of Independent Writing Evaluators and as time passed and the association grew, it changed the name to accommodate all its members as well as its mission in 2009. The association is international in scope and reach and its membership isn’t restricted by geographical borders as it has members in every continent in the world.
This year, National Words Matter Week falls from March 6 to March 12, in a week-long celebration to use words properly and all sorts of fun activities centered around the use of words. Speaking an individual’s language is not just about speaking a national language that the person understands. The language has to be used strategically as well. You need to speak in the communication style that resonates with them, speak to what they value, what they need, and what they respect. By so doing, your message will not just be heard but accepted as well.
For example, someone who refers to himself as queer wouldn’t have an issue getting called that by someone who is the same but might have an issue being called that by someone who isn’t. Likewise, some words come with prejudice and so we should be mindful of their use of them. Whether you’re a blogger, copywriter, copyeditor, publicist, in any profession in the world, or just that random person walking down the street, make sure to use words the right way.
Words Matter Week timeline
The National Association of Independent Writing Evaluators is founded.
The first edition of National Words Matter week is celebrated.
The name of the association is changed to the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE).
National Words Matter Weeks is celebrated for the 10th year.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Words Matter Week
Local businesses can honor Words Matter Week by emphasizing clear and respectful communication with customers and employees. Consider hosting a workshop on active listening for your team or implementing a ‘word of the day’ challenge to expand vocabulary. Retailers might curate a display of books on communication skills or offer discounts on journals. Restaurants could feature a ‘conversation starter’ question on their menus, encouraging thoughtful dialogue among diners.
Words Matter Week FAQs
When is Words Matter Week?
In 2027, Words Matter Week will be observed from Sunday, March 7, through Saturday, March 13. This week-long observance provides a dedicated time to enhance communication skills.
How many words are in the English language?
While a definitive count is elusive due to new coinages and specialized vocabulary, the English language is one of the largest globally. Its extensive lexicon allows for incredible precision and expression.
What is the impact of miscommunication?
The ripple effects of miscommunication can be profound, from personal frustration to large-scale organizational failures. Investing in better communication strategies can mitigate these negative outcomes.
What is the origin of Words Matter Week?
The National Council of Teachers of English initiated Words Matter Week to encourage individuals to recognize the ethical and social responsibilities inherent in using language effectively and respectfully.
Words Matter Week Activities
Spread awareness
Spread awareness of the day by posting on social media with the hashtag #WordsMatterWeek. It helps others to know about the celebration and what it is about.
Play word games
Play word games like scrabble and boggle to celebrate the day. It helps to learn new vocabulary and keep the mind sharp.
Compliment someone
Compliment someone or even more than one person to celebrate the day. Your words might just put a smile on their faces.
5 Interesting Facts About Words
The word with XYZ in order
The word is ‘hydroxyzine’ and it refers to a type of medicine that helps with sneezing and anxiety.
The day before yesterday has a word
The word is called ‘nudiustertian’, but given the time it would take you to explain it, it might be best to stick with ‘the day before yesterday.’
The single letter use words
‘Uncopyrightable’ and ‘dermatoglyphics’ are the two longest words in the English language that don’t repeat a letter.
The word to describe your first encounter
‘Qualtagh’ is the word for this. It can also be used to describe the first person to enter your home in the new year.
The word with the most meanings
The verb and sometimes noun of the word ‘set’ has the most meanings of any English word with 430 listed in the dictionary.
Why We Love Words Matter Week
We learn about control
Celebrating National Words Matter Week helps us realize that we might be offending some people unknowingly. After this, we can learn to control our words.
We learn new words
With the different activities that happen during the week, we are bound to learn a word or two. This goes on to help us better express ourselves.
It improves our writing
There’s no way you learn new words and your writing stays the same. With the week coming by, we don’t just learn new words but improve our writing as well.
Words Matter Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | March 1–7 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2027 | March 7–13 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2028 | March 5–11 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2029 | March 4–10 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2030 | March 3–9 | Sunday–Saturday |
Social Media Tips for Words Matter Week
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