Taboo lecture Flashcards
Define taboo
If something is taboo, it is socially prohibited to discuss the topic
What are examples of taboo subjects in Western cultures?
Sex
Bodily functions
Body parts
Death
Religion
How can taboo show up and how is it regulated?
Prohibition, obligation and strict regulation
Regulated by conscious or unconscious rules
How do we avoid taboo?
Euphemism
Define euphemism
Inoffensive word or expression used in place of one that may be found offensive or suggest something unpleasant
What are X-phemisms and who came up with it?
Allan and Burridge
2006
Language can be defined in terms of taboo, into 3 categories of x-phemisms
Orthophemisms, euphemism and dysphemism
Define orthophemism
Neutral or exact term for something
Define euphemism in terms of x-phemisms
Colloquial or indirect form of the corresponding orthophemism
Define dysphemism
A word or phrase that has negative connotations and would offend the hearer
Define euphemistic dysphemism
A way of avoiding a taboo word whilst conveying the same meaning
eg. sugar instead of shit
Define dysphemistic euphemism
A way of using an offensive expression without causing offence
eg. how are you, you old bastard?
What are the 5 functions of swearing?
Insults
Intensifiers
Expletives
Literal
Auxiliary
Exemplify intensifier in terms of swearing
That cake is fucking amazing
Exemplify expletives in terms of swearing
Oh fuck
Exemplify auxiliary in terms of swearing
The bloody Human communication exam is on the 13th Jan
