If you work in marketing, PR, or sales, chances are you send dozens of emails every day—but you might be making some cringeworthy mistakes without realizing it. Experts at ZeroBounce analysed over one million real emails sent between January 2024 and October 2025 and uncovered the most overused email buzzwords in the corporate world. Topping the list is the infamous “reaching out”, followed closely by “follow up”, “check in”, “aligned”, “please advise”, and “hope you’re doing well.” Other frequent offenders include “circle back”, “touch base”, and “low-hanging fruit.”
Around one in 50 emails contains a buzzword, and while these phrases can be convenient, ZeroBounce warns they lose impact with overuse. “By the millionth repetition, they’re not just clichés—they’re white noise,” the company explains. To make emails more effective, they suggest simple alternatives: instead of “hope this finds you well”, try “how’s your week going?”; replace “reaching out” with “quick question about…”; and swap “just checking in” for the direct “what are your thoughts on the proposal?”
Buzzwords won’t ruin your emails, but they can make them blend in. Clearer, more concise language helps your messages stand out and get faster replies, says ZeroBounce. The findings come alongside a separate UK survey by Sky Mobile, which revealed the most embarrassing phone faux pas—including texting the wrong person (61%), pocket-dialling (34%), and sending accidental typos (29%).
Ultimately, whether it’s email or phone etiquette, clarity and thoughtful communication remain key to making a professional impression.
Most Common Overused Email Buzzwords:
- Reaching out
- Follow up
- Check in
- Aligned
- Please advise
- Hope you’re doing well
- Hope this email finds you well
- Hope all is well
- E-meet
- Circle back
- Happy Friday / Happy Monday
- Touch base
- Hop on a call
- Bandwidth
- Per my last email
- Low-hanging fruit
