When you use profanity, is that a way of expressing your feelings?

Answer 1

It can be, but that doesn't make it appropriate.

Answer 2

Profanity is a way to express feelings, but using profanity shows a certain lack of imagination and/or intellect. Using profanity is not unlike a two year old throwing a tantrum. Feelings are being expressed, although they are not being expressed in a way that deserves our attention. Nobody wants to see a two year old throw a fit in the supermarket. We fault her/his parent for "allowing" such a display. Yet, most of us ignore it when an adult throws a profanity tantrum.

These crude "words" that people use are coarse and frequently mysogynistic. Think about it. They are often about objectifying women, degrading them, frequently in a violent fashion. Why do we put up with this?

Answer 3

A profanity (or "swear word", or "curse word", or "foul language") is a word, expression, or other usage which is generally considered insulting, rude or vulgar. The extent to which a profanity is considered to be in some way disagreeable or objectionable depends on context, timing and various other factors. However, the use of certain profanities at certain times, especially in a public setting or during a solemn occasion, will always be considered inappropriate or in bad taste, if not clearly abusive, obscene or offensive. At other times the use of certain profanities will be considered mild or acceptable, and may take less recognizable forms, such as a minced oath.

The original meaning of the term was restricted to blasphemy, sacrilege or speaking God's name in vain. However, the term has been extended to include expressions with scatological, sexist, derogatory, racist, or sexual themes. Compare the concept of the four-letter word.

The use and meaning of profanity is also culturally-specific. For example, many profanities in Quebec French are a corruption of religious terminology, while many English ones tend to reference sexuality. A term which functions as a profanity in one language may often lack any profane quality when translated into another language

Personally I think it just is unnecessary in communication and makes you look silly

Answer 4

In my opinion, profanity is only used by people who do not have a large enough vocabulary to find another more appropriate word to use in its place. It also shows a lack of consideration for those within earshot and a complete lack of self-control.

There are many, many other ways of expressing feelings that do not require the use of profanity - people should try them more often!

Answer 5

Yes. Even if instead of the S-word I say, "Oh, snap!" it's still implied that something has bothered or upset me. Profane words are only profane because someone in history decided they were.

Whoever was the first person to use the F-word didn't know it was profanity (remember he or she was the first person to use it). That person was just expressing himself and that word seemed to be the right one to use at the time.

Answer 6

In my opinion profanity is a waste of air. How is the "F" word going to express more feeling instead of using an actual feeling word. It doesn't get the meaning across any faster or make it easier to understand. Please, before profanity, what was used? Perhaps actual communicating took place.

Answer 7

Using profanity certainly is a means of expressing an immediate feeling. A hammered thumb, the impact of a car crash, a botched golf-shot - each inspire the urge to swear. The answer to your question is deeper, however - while profanity expresses a moment's feeling, those who use it to express feelings (emphasis on the S) merely betray a lack of sophistication, and often lack the vocabulary to express deeper thoughts.

Answer 8

Sometimes, but not all the time. Excessive use of it can come of a bit rude, so keep it VERY limited. Besides, there are other ways to express yourself without using profane words.

Answer 9

Hell yeah. Profanity is an integral part of the language. The words are rich with meaning and history. Profanity should be used whenever possible.

Answer 10

the use of profanity is a way of showing ignorance of language but uses expression of feelings as an excuse.

Answer 11

Profanity has been around for a long time--you can use it to express yourself. However don't be surprised that you'll be judged by others when you do curse.

I used to be on the radio. I never used nor were we allowed to say pi---ed off. Now its commonplace and in many cases socially acceptable.

If you really want to express yourself-- learn a GREAT vocabulary! It shows intelligence and you'll go farther without relying on the coarse discourse.