© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

The Impoverished State of English Profanity

Taboo words are those reserved for situations where an expression of shock is required. Words describing body parts and bodily functions set the standard for shocking language in english. What the language lacks is a strong grounding in profanity.

Copyright 2006 NPR

John Ciardi
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!