does this word offend you in any context? if so please tell me the uses that offend you and why.
2007-01-04 03:18:48 · 10 answers · asked by zzzalex 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
In 21st century America the term "Oriental" is considered by some people to be derogatory. This is largely because of its connection to 19th century European and American Imperialists who are thought to have held a patronising attitude toward the region. Many of these people saw "the East" as backwards, while the West was seen as logical, rational and more modern. Furthermore, it is claimed that some works in "Oriental studies" were riddled with inaccurate information that was used to justify colonisation of these countries.
Also, the term "oriental" is very broad, because it sometimes refers to the Middle East, an example being "oriental rugs".
Oriental is still acceptable when referring to food, but I think because it was historically offensive, some people today still find it to be offensive. Asian is definitely the politically correct term to use to describe people of Asia or of Asian ancestry.
2007-01-04 05:20:24 · answer #1 · answered by Rabbityama 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I don't find the word oriental offensive but when I make reference to a person of Chinese or Japanese origin I usually use the word Asian as to not offend anyone in case I am wrong on there ethnic background.
2007-01-04 03:23:44 · answer #2 · answered by Happy2bAlive 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Export products like rugs and food are Oriental. People are Asian. Yes, Oriental is offensive for describing people.
2007-01-04 08:57:03 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Oriental refers to an object or posession. EX. Oriental Rug
Asian refers to a person of Asian decent. (Japan, China, Cambodia, Vietnam, etc)
2007-01-04 03:24:13 · answer #4 · answered by ficklepegasus 2 · 3⤊ 1⤋
Oriental is about as offensive as american. How can something that describes your ethnicity be offensive. If Oriental offends you, then im sure just about anything can offend you.
2007-01-04 03:25:50 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 3⤋
Not the least bit offensive to a well adjusted adult.
2016-02-11 13:20:00 · answer #6 · answered by Utility Account 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm not offended but I'm not oriental or asian so I guess my opinion on it really doesn't matter. But if I was oriental or asian (whichever term you prefer) I don't think I'd care.
2007-01-04 03:35:55 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
I used the term "oriental" and was corrected...."it's Asian"
2007-01-04 03:22:25 · answer #8 · answered by ssssss 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It isn't offensive when speaking of a buffet.
2007-01-04 03:22:01 · answer #9 · answered by Boilerfan 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
NO,
2007-01-04 03:26:23 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋