The Slang Offensive: Why Certain Terms I Refuse to Use

Language is a fascinating and evolving entity, but sometimes, certain modern slang terms strike me as nonsensical and excessive. Phrases like “lit” and “fire” are prime examples. “Lit”!

What exactly did you light to make sense of this word’s usage? It’s a term often employed to describe an exciting, impressive, or spirited event or situation, yet when taken literally, it doesn’t make a lick of sense!

Then there’s “fire.” “Fire”! What’s on fire, exactly? It’s a seemingly arbitrary term used to denote something incredible or exciting. Its usage confounds me, suggesting a widespread decline in the sophistication of our language.

Another term that irks me is “a minute.” “It’s been a minute”, a phrase that makes no logical sense! The word “minute” is precisely 60 seconds; it doesn’t equate to a long stretch of time at all. This phrase is simply a lazy and meaningless statement, indicating the dumbing down of American language.

The Lingering Impact of a Word: "Bastard"

Perhaps one of the more enduring and emotionally charged terms I refuse to use, especially in casual contexts, is “bastard.” The usage of this term, whether in jest or during a heated argument, leaves a bitter taste. The term “bastard” has an unfortunately rich history that associates it with significant emotional and social scars.

In my formative years, the term “bastard” was no idle threat or friendly poke. It resonated deeply, stirring unpleasant memories. As a child in the 1940s and 1950s, I faced ridicule and exclusion due to this term. During my school days, I was often ostracized with the phrase, “You’re not allowed to play with us because you’re a bastard.”

Reflecting on these experiences, I can see that the actual impact of the word “bastard” on individuals was often a reflection of the misperceptions and biases of others rather than any inherent truth. It's important to recognize that in many cases, the term “bastard” was used without an understanding of its deeper implications.

My personal history with the word is not just a childhood memory but a series of events that shaped my outlook. Raised in various care settings, including with my grandparents and in various children's homes, the term was a part of the narrative and a source of pain. It was a barrier that was often internalized, making me question my worth and place in the world. Despite the emotional toll it took, I eventually found a loving and stable family through adoption.

The term “bastard” is a pejorative that has been used to diminish and harm individuals, and its continued usage can perpetuate cycles of pain and injustice. While it's part of the vernacular, its implications are too heavy for me to support.

The Evolution of Slang and Language

Slang terms and colloquial expressions serve as the memes of language, spreading quickly and widely. However, as our society evolves, the language we use must evolve with it. Terms like “lit” and “fire” may be trendy, but they rarely offer meaningful or substantive communication.

Similarly, the phrase “a minute” to mean “a long time” demonstrates a lack of precision in language. Words like these can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of clarity in communication. As digital natives and over-crowded information processors, we need to be conscious of the words we choose and their impact.

In conclusion, while we may find some slang terms amusing or convenient, the impact they can have on individuals and society as a whole should not be overlooked. Language is not just a tool for communication but also a mirror of our culture and values.