Dale, since you want to rate words I'd think you'd jump at a more objective rating system. Your 1,2,3 system is simpler on first view but too easy to oversimplify, like the old comments about there being only 2 types of people in the world. Because it's based on your personal impression of the word and its popularity it can't take into account regionalisms, professional differences etc.
As for Anu sticking to more accessible words - where would be the fun in that?