An analysis of swearing from a positive perspective

Abstract

It is undeniable that in most cultures, swearing has always been regarded as offensive. However, it is ubiquitous as it occurs in a number of various circumstances. The following paper concentrates on the violation of the social norms through offensive language – that is swearing. The primary objective is to concentrate on the nature and functions of swearing and analyze selected swear words in a number of various contextual settings. Hence the examples will be context-dependent as it is the context which determines the meaning and the function of a particular swear word. It should be emphasized that there are several functions of swearing, such as venting negative emotions, frustration, offending or insulting others, showing solidarity and even bringing forth laughter. It is common knowledge that generally, swearing is considered to be a negative and offensive phenomenon as it is associated with rudeness, impoliteness, insensitivity, aggression and frustration. In the following article we will attempt to demonstrate the occurrence of swearing used in a more positive sense. We will deal with selected examples of swear words and various functions of swearing in a number of communicative events and will indicate a positive nature of swearing. Our analysis is based on the examples taken from selected movies. We intend to demonstrate that swearing does not always have to be associated with impoliteness, lack of good manners and negative emotions. Instead we will show that there are a number of contextual settings in which swearing can be perceived neutrally or even positively. It is undeniable that the very act of swearing causes violation of the norms, which is usually considered to be a negative phenomenon. Nevertheless, we will attempt to indicate that it does not always have to be perceived negatively or regarded as rude or offensive.