swear-word
Definition
- Noun:
- Swear-word refers to a word or phrase that is considered offensive, vulgar, or taboo in a particular language or culture, often used to express strong emotions such as anger, frustration, or surprise. It is synonymous with "curse word" or "expletive."
Usage Examples
- (He used an offensive word to express pain or anger.)
- (They discourage the use of vulgar language in an educational setting.)
Advanced Usage
- is typically used as a countable noun, often in contexts of social etiquette, censorship, or emotional expression.
- The movie was rated R due to frequent use of swear-words. (The film contained many offensive terms, leading to a restrictive rating.)
- In informal speech, it can be modified by adjectives like "bad," "strong," or "dirty."
- She apologized for the bad swear-word she said. (She regretted using a particularly offensive term.)
Variants and Related Words
- Swear (verb, noun): To make a solemn promise or to use offensive language.
- He swore to tell the truth. (He made a solemn promise.)
- She swore loudly after the accident. (She used offensive language.)
- Swearing (noun): The act of using swear-words.
- Swearing is not allowed in this library. (Using offensive language is prohibited.)
Synonyms
- Curse word: A word considered offensive or blasphemous.
- Expletive: A word or phrase used to express strong emotion, often profane.
- Profanity: Language that shows disrespect for sacred things or is vulgar.
Related Idioms
- "Swear like a trooper": To use swear-words frequently or forcefully.
- The old sailor swore like a trooper when he heard the news. (He used many swear-words in anger.)
Note: Since "swear-word" is a compound noun, no phrasal verbs or separate meanings beyond the core definition apply.