10 Words That You Shouldn't Get Tattooed & 10 To Consider That Aren't Cheesy
Before You Head To The Needle
If you're not one for pictures, maybe you've got your eyes set on getting a text tattoo. After all, words are simple and can have deep meaning. But even though getting a tattoo of a word may seem straightforward, there's more to it than just picking one you like. To make sure you don't regret your decision, here are 10 words you shouldn't get tattooed, and 10 that you should consider.
1. “Hate”
A word that comes in hot, aggressive, and rarely softens with time, "hate" can easily be read as hostile to people who don't know you. Even if you mean it in a tongue-in-cheek way, it doesn't play well with changing tastes, jobs, or even social circles. So if you're aiming for edge, there are better ways to do it than to broadcast such negativity.
2. “Forever”
Maybe "forever" sounds sweet at first, but realistically, it's a promise you can't control. Not to mention, it's a word that'll likely invite unwanted questions like "Forever what?" or "Forever who?", making it feel like people will judge you if there wasn't some deeper meaning (which there normally isn't).
3. “Loyalty”
Sure, "loyalty" is a word that carries lots of integrity and strength, but it can also unintentionally signal that you're trying to keep score in a relationship. It might not come off the way you want it, with people reading it as a test or an exaggerated way of showcasing your values. If loyalty matters to you, you can pick a phrase that communicates it without sounding like a demand.
4. “Savage”
If there's one piece of advice to keep in mind, it's that trends change overtime. For a word like "savage," it might've felt bold a year ago, but today, it'll read like you're not with the times. It also carries a tone that can feel performative when it’s permanently on your body. If you like confident energy, choose a word that doesn’t rely on slang staying popular.
5. “Blessed”
Getting a tattoo of this word can come off as humblebraggy even when you’re being sincere. Some people will interpret it as preachy, while others will treat it as a punchline. You might also get tired of explaining what you meant by it, which is annoying for something that should feel effortless. Gratitude tattoos can be great, but there are cleaner choices.
6. “Alpha”
Even if you meant it as personal confidence, a lot of people associate “Alpha” with internet masculinity culture, which tends to read as insecurity or posturing. It’s the kind of word that can spark assumptions before you even speak, so always double check if a word has positive or negative connotations before printing it onto your skin.
7. “Boss”
We know you're just trying to hype yourself up, but “boss” comes across more like you’re trying to convince the room rather than be yourself. It’s also tied to hustle culture slogans that many people are already tired of. Over time, it may read more like a phase than a trait.
8. “Revenge”
A good rule of thumb is: never tattoo something negative. Something like "revenge" suggests that you're holding onto something and that's likely not the impression you want to give off. And even if your story is complicated or positive, the word itself doesn’t leave room for nuance.
9. “Crazy”
Tattooing a word like "crazy' just seems a bit careless. No matter what your reasoning or story was, at first glance, it immediately gives you a negative image. If you want “wild” energy, there are more considerate options.
10. “Perfect”
Everybody strives for perfection, but getting a tattoo of the word itself can turn into a weird standard you feel obligated to live up to. Honestly, it can also read a bit unrealistic, which can come off as naive rather than aspirational. Some people might even interpret it as vanity, even if you meant self-acceptance.
1. “Enough”
Short, clean, and emotionally clear without being too syrupy, "enough" comes across as self-worth, setting boundaries, and finding peace. It's the perfect no explanation needed kind of word. It's far more mature than trendy, and it can act as a steady reminder whenever you need it.
Felicia Buitenwerf on Unsplash
2. “Calm”
Life isn't always easy, and "calm" is a direct and practical word that doesn't pretend that it is. It's a nice cue to help you remember how you should be responding and acting when your day gets tough, making it practical on top of meaningful. It’s understated in a way that still feels intentional.
3. “Breathe”
It's easy to get caught up in the fast movement of day to day life, so keeping "breathe" tattooed on your skin is the constant reminder you need to slow down. It's a common tattoo to get, but that doesn't make it cheesy by any means. It's functional and personal, acting more as a supportive word than preachy.
4. “Hope”
“Hope” is a simple, four-letter word, but it doesn’t feel like a slogan when you choose it for real reasons. It can represent patience, recovery, faith, or grit without dragging in extra drama. People generally read it as kind, not corny, making it one of the few big-feeling words that still stays tasteful.
5. “Focus”
This word has a clear purpose and a clean tone, which keeps it from sounding like a motivational poster. Though it's only one word, it suggests discipline without bragging about it. If your life gets noisy, a single directive like this can be grounding.
6. “Steady”
Similar to focus, “steady” suggests consistency without sounding too controlling or intense. It can apply to your work, your habits, or how you want to treat people, and you likely won't have to explain yourself to get the message across. This can be a great option if you're searching for quiet confidence that doesn’t beg for approval.
7. “Kind”
Sweet and simple, "kind" is a real value word that's plain enough without getting overly sentimental. It can act as a reminder of how you want to show up, especially when you’re stressed or irritated. Most people won’t roll their eyes at it because it’s not trying to be edgy or profound.
8. “Learn”
We're all trying to learn and grow in this world, and this word is the perfect way to demonstrate that. It works at every age, which is a rare quality for text tattoos, and it carries a nice humbleness to it without any effort.
9. “Create”
For all the creative minds out there, “create” suggests action, curiosity, and initiative without sounding like you’re lecturing anyone. It fits artists, builders, problem-solvers, and anyone who likes making things better. The word is nicely forward-looking, so if you want motivation that doesn’t annoy you, this is a safe bet.
10. “Home”
What's more reassuring, comforting, and reliable than the word "home?" It can mean a person, a place, a mindset, or whatever you want it to be, and it doesn't demand an explanation. The word is warm without being overly sentimental, making this a softer tattoo that still feels grounded.
