swearword

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Definition

Noun: A word or phrase considered profane, obscene, or blasphemous, typically used to express strong emotion such as surprise, anger, or frustration.

Usage

A swearword is a socially taboo term. Its use is often considered impolite, offensive, or inappropriate in formal or polite settings. It serves as an emphatic exclamation or an intensifier within informal speech.

Examples
  • The comedian's routine was full of swearwords.
  • He let out a swearword when he hit his thumb with the hammer.
  • The film was given an adult rating due to its use of swearwords.
Advanced Usage
  • As a countable noun: The term is commonly used in the plural () to refer to multiple instances or types of such words.
  • Contextual Taboo: The classification of a word as a can vary significantly across cultures, generations, and social contexts. What is offensive in one setting may be acceptable in another.
Variants and Related Words
  • Swear word (noun): An alternative, two-word spelling with the same meaning.
  • Curse word (noun): A near-synonym, often used interchangeably.
  • Expletive (noun): A more formal term for a swearword or oath, often used in linguistic or analytical contexts.
  • Profanity (noun): The quality of being profane; also refers to swearwords collectively.
  • Obscenity (noun): A highly offensive, often sexually explicit swearword or action.
Synonyms
  • Curse
  • Oath
  • Cuss (informal)
  • Four-letter word
  • Dirty word
Related Idioms and Phrases
  • To swear like a sailor/trooper: To use swearwords frequently and fluently.
    • He was so angry he started swearing like a sailor.
Noun
  1. profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger
    • expletives were deleted