ethnic slur

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Definition

Noun: A disparaging, offensive, or insulting term or phrase used to denigrate a person or group based on their perceived racial, national, or ethnic origin. It is a form of hate speech that reinforces prejudice and stereotypes.

Usage

This term is used to identify and categorize language that is explicitly racist or ethnically derogatory. It is a formal label for a category of harmful speech. - The use of an ethnic slur is unacceptable in any civil discourse. - The article analyzed the historical impact of a particular ethnic slur. - He was fired for uttering an ethnic slur against a coworker.

Advanced Usage
  • As a compound noun: The term itself, "ethnic slur," functions as a compound noun where "ethnic" modifies the type of "slur." It is typically used in sociological, linguistic, and legal contexts to discuss issues of discrimination and hate speech.
  • Conceptual usage: It can be discussed in the abstract as a social phenomenon.
    • The study focused on the psychology behind the creation and use of the ethnic slur.
Variants and Related Words
  • Slur (n): A general term for any insulting or disparaging remark. An "ethnic slur" is a specific type of slur.
  • Racial epithet (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "ethnic slur."
  • Derogatory term (n): A broader category that includes ethnic slurs but also insults based on gender, religion, etc.
Synonyms
  • Racial slur
  • Racial epithet
  • Derogatory ethnic term
  • Pejorative ethnic term
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • To hurl a slur: To direct a slur at someone.
    • The politician was accused of hurling an ethnic slur at his opponent.
  • Slur-based harassment: Harassment that primarily uses slurs.
    • The company has a zero-tolerance policy for slur-based harassment.
Important Notes

An "ethnic slur" is distinct from general insults. Its power and harm derive directly from its connection to a person's or group's ethnicity, race, or national origin. Its use is widely condemned and can have serious social, professional, and legal consequences.

Noun
  1. a slur on someone's race or language