Definition

Noun: 1. An offensive or indecent word or phrase: A vulgarism is a word or expression that is considered crude, coarse, or offensive, often because it refers to bodily functions, sex, or other taboo subjects in a direct and socially unacceptable way. 2. The quality of lacking taste and refinement: This meaning refers to the state or characteristic of being vulgar, showing a lack of sophistication, good taste, or cultural polish in behavior, manners, or expression.

Usage Examples

• As an offensive word or phrase:
  • The comedian's routine was criticized for its reliance on cheap vulgarisms.
  • Using that vulgarism in a formal meeting is completely inappropriate.
• As the quality of being vulgar:
  • The vulgarism of his jokes made many guests uncomfortable at the dinner party.
  • Critics dismissed the artwork as mere vulgarism, lacking any subtlety or depth.

Advanced Usage

• Linguistic/Stylistic Context: In linguistics and literary criticism, a "vulgarism" is specifically marked as a non-standard, coarse word that is avoided in formal or polite discourse. Its use is often a deliberate stylistic choice to portray a character's background, emotional state, or to create a specific tone.
  • The author used vulgarisms in the dialogue to emphasize the character's rough upbringing and anger.

Variants and Related Words

• Vulgar (adjective): Lacking sophistication or good taste; coarse and rude.
  • He made a vulgar gesture.
• Vulgarity (noun): The state or quality of being vulgar. This is more commonly used than "vulgarism" for the second definition (the quality of being vulgar).
  • She was shocked by the vulgarity of their comments.
• Vulgarize (verb): To make vulgar or common; to debase.
  • Some fear television will vulgarize high culture.

Synonyms

• Profanity: Blasphemous or obscene language.
• Obscenity: Extremely offensive or indecent language or behavior.
• Coarseness: The quality of being rough or harsh in manner or speech.
• Crudity: The quality of being rudely simple or undeveloped; offensiveness in speech or behavior.

Antonyms

• Refinement: The quality of being cultured, polished, or elegant.
• Decorum: Behavior in keeping with good taste and propriety.
• Propriety: Conformity to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or morals.
• Euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt.

Noun

1. the quality of lacking taste and refinement
2. an offensive or indecent word or phrase