Alright, now before you all go saying "They're bad, don't swear!", just hear me out. What the heck is up with "bad words" or "rude gestures"? I mean, they're just words. They're just gestures. What makes them stand out from other words and gestures? Let me break it down for you: Take for example, the S-word. It's a "bad word". But what makes it different? I mean, I get how it could be rather lewd, but it's just another word for poop! So why isn't crap, or poop, or excrement a bad word? Why has "sh*t" been labelled as a bad word? And rude gestures. Take for example,the middle finger. Why is that offensive? You're showing someone your finger. I'm so offended. I mean, if the middle finger is offensive, then why isn't the forefinger or ringfinger expensive? I would not only like some cultural talk, but it would also be nice to learn about the etymology of these "bad words". Thanks, -Moat
What the heck is up with "bad words" or "rude gestures"? I mean, they're just words. They're just gestures. What makes them stand out from other words and gestures?
The only words/gestures I'm offended my are the n word, and the f word. The only gesture is the middle finger. Show that one to my face and I'll break it.
It's just offensive sometimes. All of us use them at some point or another, but they just are.
Anyone who has enough of a dirty mind to consider any words/gestures (not including serious threats) bad deserves to be offended.
That's true, rafterman. It's like being offended when you lose. It's going to happen one way or the other, so if you're offended by it, either get used to it or stop being so sensitive.
Totally agree. That's all there is to say.
Um...okay?
words i agree but gestures.... well some are just plain dirty period.
Take for example,the middle finger. Why is that offensive? You're showing someone your finger. I'm so offended.
My dad told me back in the 100 years war. The French cut off the fingers of the English Longbow-men ( who pwn the French) And If they forgot to cut one, and the English would hold up their middle finger and say "you missed one you mother****er!"
I would have to agree. I mean, if I started saying the word "desk" was a bad word and convinced enough people, I bet in 100 years from now "desk" would be considered a terrible curse word like f*** or s***.
Assassin, you forgot the bracket at the very beginning. XP
THANK YOU I <3 THE OP!!!
Er...thank you? I'm glad you agree. Although I'm not thus inclined...*walks away*
My dad told me back in the 100 years war. The French cut off the fingers of the English Longbow-men ( who pwn the French) And If they forgot to cut one, and the English would hold up their middle finger and say "you missed one you mother****er!"
That sounds about right. My only question is; how the heck did that sort of habit make it from Europe to America? But, thank you for your information. That was interesting.
I personally do not take offense to supposed "bad" language nor "rude" gestures. I don't use either, but that's because I can debate a point without resorting to "insulting" statements or gestures. The saying "You'll attract more flies with honey than with vinegar" is, in my opinion, a true statement. If it's offensive to some people, why bother using it ... what's the point?
this doesnt explain why its a bad word, but i know the origin of the S word.
long time ago when they used manure as a fertilizer, they would ship it on ships. when water would get in the ship it would make the manure smell bad, so they started posting the phrase "store high in transit" on the manure, meaning to store it above the floor so it woundt get wet, and then it was shortened to sh*t
I allways wondered why there were "bad words" .... its so stupid, like u said its just a word. and I hate it when they take out a "bad word" :/ I hate it.
What the heck is up with "bad words" or "rude gestures"? I mean, they're just words. They're just gestures. What makes them stand out from other words and gestures?
It's true that ''blimey'' is not quite as satisfying as a well executed F-bomb, but that's not the point.
Observational learning can be a powerful thing. I don't see why people resent not being able to swear all the time. The reason should be obvious.
