A slogan is a short, memorable phrase designed to stick in people's minds and express an idea quickly. Companies use slogans in advertising to help customers remember their products: Nike's “Just Do It” encourages action and determination, while McDonald's “I'm Lovin' It” suggests you'll enjoy their food. Political campaigns rely on slogans too: memorable phrases like “Yes We Can” or “Make America Great Again” capture a candidate's message in just a few words.

The best slogans are catchy and easy to remember, often using rhythm, rhyme, or repetition. “Don't Mess with Texas” (originally an anti-littering campaign) works because it's bold and rhythmic. Schools and clubs create slogans for spirit weeks or fundraisers to rally support and excitement.

A slogan differs from a motto, which tends to be more serious and lasting. Your school might have a motto like “Knowledge is Power” that defines its core values, while a slogan like “Read to Succeed!” might promote a specific reading challenge. Think of slogans as being designed to be catchy and persuasive, capturing attention and making an idea memorable in just a handful of words.