Jordan was tired of hearing the same word from all his friends: maybe. Every time he tried to make plans—whether it was going to the movies, playing basketball, or just hanging out—he got the same half-hearted response. “Maybe” became the death sentence for every plan he made, and he’d had enough. So, as a joke (but also kind of seriously), he wrote a letter to the dictionary people asking them to remove “maybe” altogether. He argued that it was ruining friendships, wasting time, and turning people into indecisive zombies. The letter blew up online, and soon teens everywhere were joining the #BanMaybe movement. Memes were made, teachers banned the word in classrooms, and the world slowly started choosing yes or no instead of hiding behind the uncertainty of “maybe.” And in the end, Jordan finally had a Friday night where everyone actually showed up—no maybes, just good times.

People should sign the petition to ban the word “maybe” from the dictionary because it has become the ultimate excuse for indecision and avoiding commitment. Instead of giving a clear yes or no, people hide behind “maybe” to dodge responsibility, leave others hanging, or avoid making real choices. This one word causes confusion, kills plans before they even start, and creates unnecessary stress in friendships, relationships, and everyday communication. By removing “maybe,” we can encourage people to be more honest, direct, and confident in their answers—making life simpler, clearer, and way less frustrating for everyone.

Banning the word “maybe” will have a positive impact on youth by encouraging clearer communication, stronger decision-making skills, and more dependable relationships. Young people today often struggle with anxiety around commitment and fear of disappointing others, so they use “maybe” as a way to avoid giving real answers. Without that option, they’ll be pushed to think more carefully, speak with confidence, and take responsibility for their choices. This shift can lead to better friendships, less stress in social situations, and a greater sense of personal growth. In a world that already feels uncertain, removing “maybe” helps young people create certainty where they can—starting with their own voice.