h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

When all is said and done ,there are only two (count them) 2, swear words of four letters which can be considered bad language .I will not repeat them here as i'm sure most people know what they are .
I always find that persons who resort to using this type of language tend to suffer from a lack of vocabulary and their frustration is shown when they cannot think of anything to say, then an expletive will suffice for them .
There are so many, many ways of letting off steam or getting an aguement accross ,or telling someone off, the use of such swear words is totally uncalled for .
I can think of a few .
I wonder how many others can come up with the best of put-downs. Let's hear from you .

Tommy Mac

Hi!

I think you may have meant to post this to A1302517?

Rho

Hi Rho - long time, no ..er..type?!

Yep tommy - you are right, using clever words doesn't make ones opinion any more right, and equally using vile language doesn't make a point any more valid.

In fact using understandable, inoffensive terminology, and being able to communicate a point to everyone is much more effective than screaming, shouting and swearing, or using words to deliberately confuse people.

Trouble is, too many people think the louder they shout, the more right they are

Very long time no type! Where have you been hiding?

Rho

I disagree, I feel that a curse word is just as valid a part of the english language as any other word.

What makes the difference is context and usage. A sentence where every word is a swearword (or even a person who speaks like that) is a sure sign of lack of imagination, but there ARE situations where only a curse will do. In fact one of the most shocking things ever was hearing a rector scream "F**K" when he dropped a cupboard on his foot - because he never swore it gained MORE emphasis when he did use it.

Oh, and I can think of at least 4 words of four letters that are definitely bad language

SkArcher

Hi and welcome to h2g2, SkArcher!

The first thing you should do is to write a little about yourself on your personal space, U247593, so that other people can leave you messages. To do this, click 'My Space' then follow the instructions, or use this link: <./>UserEdit?masthead=1</.>.

Also, you may well want to change your nickname to something more personal than 'Researcher 247593'! To do this, click 'Preferences', change your nickname then click 'Update Details'.

I hope that helps!
Rho

Editorial Note: This conversation has been moved from 'Contributing to the Guide' to 'Talking Point: Four-letter Words '.

I agree with the above sentiments. There can be no better relief at times than just to swear. It relieves tension without causing physical harm to anyone. BUT overuse of swearing can indicate that it is being used as a verbal pause while the brain catches up with the conversation.
The best sentence that I actually heard was ‘the f*cking f*cker’s f*cked’. This was from someone who has been known to use Tippex on his computer screen when he has mistyped something (along with numerous expletives).