This year we have been inundated with the use of the label "unprecedented." It's been used so often that being unprecedented seems to be the most precedented thing going. So when you use that term it's really close to meaningless.
We have so many good adjectives to use. Pick the ones that have the most explanatory power for the situation you are describing. How about "harmful," "illegal," "dangerous," "just plain wrong," "crossed a line," "completely unacceptable," "terrible," "deadly," "dark," "scary," "damaging,"or "illuminating as to motives."
When you try to explain the situation you are considering, a moment's reflection will help you choose adjectives of power rather than empty overused cliches like "unprecedented."
These are really precedented times. Times when a seemingly unending stream of dangerous situations grabs our attention every day. These are times when applying proper Checks and Balances is going to be an essential skill. Stopping using "unprecedented" is one small but helpful step.
Bottom Line. DNR. Do Not Repeatedly Label anything "unprecedented." Thanks
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