14 Yearbook Superlatives That Would Be Banned Today
Here's a revealing look at 14 outdated yearbook titles that likely wouldn’t survive today’s standards of sensitivity and inclusivity.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
In decades past, yearbook superlatives like “Biggest Flirt” or “Most Likely to Marry for Money” were amusing but often perpetuated stereotypes or made assumptions about individuals. Today, these casual labels would be criticized — or outright banned — for being insensitive, body-shaming, or perpetuating gendered and social biases.
1. “Most Carefree”
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Once seen as lighthearted and complimentary, this label could now be criticized for trivializing stress or mental health. Today, schools might skip it to avoid assumption-based labeling. This phrase now feels tone-deaf, even if it was meant kindly.
2. “Most Popular”
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Declaring a student “Most Popular” may spark concerns about bullying or social exclusion today. Schools often shy away from this to maintain inclusivity. Once a badge for social butterflies, it’s now a potential source of pain.
3. “Biggest Flirt”
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This label reduced students to appearance and behavior, often reinforcing gender stereotypes. Today, it could be seen as inappropriate or harassing. It’s a relic that oversimplifies personal identity.
4. “Best Dressed”
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While seemingly innocent, this superlative subtly pressures students to focus on their appearance. It implies fashion is a measure of worth, which today may prompt body positivity pushback. Now, it’s considered unfairly subjective.
5. “Most Studious”
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Celebrating academic focus might marginalize quieter or creatively inclined students. Modern schools opt for broader recognition to include all talents. “Most Academically Inclined” would likely win instead.
6. “Friendliest”
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Though seemingly harmless, this superlative assumes visibility of kindness, sidelining introverts. Today’s schools prefer inclusive awards like “Kind Hearted Crew.” Recognizing warmth without competition is trendier now.
7. “Most Musical”
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Though affirming, it risks isolating students who excel in non-musical arts. Nowadays, award categories often span broader creative areas. Old labels have boxed students into narrow talents.
8. “Most Versatile”
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This superlative might feel vague or overused and tough to define meaningfully. Today, schools might opt for specific skills like “Best Collaborator” or “Creative Multitasker.” It has lost clarity in the current standards.
9. “Most Cooperative”
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Labeling cooperation assumes consistent behavior, and schools now avoid implying this trait as superior. Group-based awards foster inclusivity instead. Superlatives like this can feel divisive or presumptive.
10. “Most School-Spirited”
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Celebrating intense school enthusiasm often narrowed what’s considered “spirit,” excluding quieter students. Modern recognition favors teamwork or community involvement. The old concept felt performative.
11. “No Duh!"
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A sarcastic reply used when someone stated the obvious, “No duh!” was everywhere in schools and sitcoms during the ’90s. It gave kids and teens a playful way to act smug without being too mean. Over time, it lost its bite and now feels clunky compared to sharper comebacks people use today.
12. “Most Dramatic”
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This label might encourage stigma around emotional expression, particularly for girls. Present-day standards avoid emotionally loaded awards. Emotional intelligence is valued more constructively now.
13. “Most Talkative”
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Highlighting chatty students can be hypercritical and put introverts at a disadvantage. Today’s schools prefer positive affirmation like “Best Communicator.” Old labels risked insulting quieter peers.
14. “Most Athletic”
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Though celebrating fitness is okay, it could shame those uninterested in sports. Modern yearbooks often lean toward “Most Active” or “Outdoor Enthusiast” to promote inclusivity. Fitness shouldn’t define value, but labels once did.