Eliminate the word 'gotten' from my vocabulary

Over the past month, I haven’t used the word ‘gotten’ once. I have officially completed this goal. 3 years ago

1. They’ve gotten a new xyz.
replace with
- obtain, acquire, receive, gain, attain

2. I’ve gotten used to it.
replace with
- become, grow, turn

3. We’ve gotten her to go.
replace with
- persuade, convince, induce, coax, coerce

4. I’ve already gotten on the train.
replace with
- board, enter, climb on, ascend, catch

5. Have I gotten my message across?
replace with
- communicate, impart, convey, make clear, express

6. My mother has gotten better since then.
replace with
- recover, regain strength, recuperate

7. I wouldn’t have gotten the flu had she not sneezed on me.
replace with
- contract, catch, fall ill with 3 years ago

I can’t think of a substitute word for ‘gotten’ when used in this context, ‘I haven’t gotten through to you, have I?’. Does anyone have any ideas?

Apart from this minor hiccup, I now subconsciously avoid speaking or writing this word. Another month and I’m convinced I will have accomplished this goal. 3 years ago

I do not like this word. I was oblivious to how unintelligent and plain it sounds until many months ago. It is extremely common and extremely overused in our everyday English which is tragic because there are countless other words that are synonymous with ‘gotten’ yet far superior in sound and meaning.

‘Gotten’ is a rather controversial word with linguists disputing on whether it is a legitimate word or not. Frankly, I don’t give a damn if it is illegitimate or legitimate. Our language is perpetually evolving after all, and therefore, we (linguists, lexicographers and etymologists included) should have the ability to accept and facilitate the addition of new words and their use in everyday speech.

At this point, whoever may be reading this woeful entry, may be convinced I am a hypocrite. I will explain. I possess an implacable hatred of the word because, in my opinion, it is a ridiculously flimsy word…very, very bland and unimaginative. In spite of this, I occasionally use ‘gotten’ for lack of a better word in that particular context but that must stop. I intend to discontinue speaking and writing this word completely, however, it will be a gradual process. 3 years ago