buzzphrase

Generate random business buzzwords

TLDR

Generate a string of three random phrases containing an adjective, a past tense verb and a plural noun

$ buzzphrase

Print a phrase formatted as [i]mperative verb + past tense [v]erb + [a]djective + plural [N]oun

$ buzzphrase ['{i} {v} {a} {N}']

Print k phrases formatted as present participle [V]erb + [a]djective + singular [n]oun + [f]inal

$ buzzphrase [k] ['{V} {a} {n} {f}']

buzzphrase is a straightforward utility designed to generate random, often nonsensical, corporate or technical buzzphrases. It accomplishes this by selecting a random word from each of three predefined internal lists, concatenating them to form a complete phrase. The resulting output often satirizes the convoluted and meaningless jargon prevalent in certain professional environments, making it suitable for a Dilbert comic strip, as its man page suggests.

Part of the bsdgames collection, buzzphrase's primary purpose is humor and lighthearted amusement rather than practical business application. It provides a quick way to generate a chuckle or underscore the absurdity of modern business speak with a single command invocation.

CAVEATS

The buzzphrase command offers very limited functionality with no options for customization of output or input word lists directly via command-line arguments. Its output is always a single line generated from its fixed internal word lists, which are typically located in a system-wide directory. Users cannot easily influence the types of phrases generated without inspecting or modifying the source word file directly, which is generally not recommended and requires appropriate system permissions.

WORD SOURCE

The phrases generated by buzzphrase are constructed from word lists stored in a plain text file, typically found at /usr/share/games/bsdgames/buzzphrase.words. This file contains the three columns of words from which the command draws randomly. While not officially supported, advanced users could theoretically inspect or modify this file to alter the generated buzzphrases, though this requires appropriate system permissions and understanding of the file's format.

HUMOROUS INTENT

The sole intent of the buzzphrase command is humor and satire. It serves as a lighthearted commentary on the often-abstract and sometimes meaningless jargon prevalent in corporate, technological, and bureaucratic environments. It's a prime example of command-line tools designed purely for entertainment rather than utility, offering a quick chuckle or a moment of reflection on language usage.

HISTORY

buzzphrase originates from the classic bsdgames collection, a suite of humorous and recreational utilities commonly found on BSD Unix systems. It was authored by Larry D. Broussard. Its inclusion in these packages underscores a tradition of lighthearted, satirical command-line tools that provide entertainment alongside more serious system utilities, reflecting the playful side of early Unix development.