Nearly half of Brits admit to using misheard sayings incorrectly, according to new research conducted by Wales Online. The study reveals that exactly 46% of respondents say they trip up when it comes to using ‘eggcorns’ – the official name for misheard sayings – with two-fifths (40%) admitting to mishearing them for years. Furthermore, one in 10 (10%) confess to consistently using misheard sayings throughout their entire lives, with one in four finding it irritating when others do the same.
Renowned writer, broadcaster, and wordsmith Gyles Brandreth has partnered with Specsavers to address this issue. The optician, which commissioned the research, aims to correct the nation’s misinterpretation of well-known sayings by launching the ‘Misheard Manifesto’. Together with Brandreth, they are urging the public to eradicate common misinterpretations like ‘wriggle room’, ‘escape goat’, ‘damp squid’, and ‘nip in the butt’. Brandreth, who has disclosed his own hearing loss affecting clarity and high frequencies, emphasised the importance of addressing hearing issues, stating, “These misheard sayings have plagued our nation’s conversations for too many years.â€
The research highlights that a significant barrier to correcting mishearings is the reluctance to potentially offend or embarrass others. Over half of respondents (52%) admitted they would avoid pointing out misheard sayings, while two-fifths (41%) said they are too polite to make corrections. When corrected, more than a quarter (26%) of individuals express surprise, and 15% are shocked.
Despite attributing their misusage of common words and phrases to hearing difficulties, only 41% of respondents had sought a hearing check within the past five years. It is estimated that over five million people in the UK are ignoring hearing issues, which can lead to a reduced quality of life, communication challenges, and feelings of isolation. Specsavers’ Martina McNulty emphasised the importance of early detection and intervention, stating that timely action can prevent long-term consequences.
TV personality Dr. Zoe Williams encouraged individuals experiencing difficulties in hearing to seek assistance without shame or embarrassment. She stressed the significance of clear communication and urged those struggling with misinterpretations to undergo a free hearing check at their local optician.
To address this widespread issue, Specsavers has launched the Misheard Manifesto campaign, aiming to raise awareness about misheard sayings and highlight the importance of proper hearing care. By encouraging individuals to prioritise their hearing health, the campaign seeks to enhance communication and eliminate common misinterpretations prevalent in everyday conversations.
The ‘Misheard Manifesto’ campaign, led by Gyles Brandreth and Specsavers, hopes to transform 2024 into the year misheard sayings come to an end. Through education, awareness, and proactive hearing care, the campaign strives to improve understanding and communication among individuals, reducing the prevalence of misinterpretations and enhancing overall clarity in conversations.