Why do we swear?

When we swear and use one or more particular words we generally have already made up our minds as to which kind of company we are taking part in. The same applies for less socially offensive terminology which however we tend to use in mixed company or in settings where social etiquete dominates, feelings of loved ones can be hurt, or where our lives are in the balance. Swearing like kicking the wall, huging someone, crying, blowing a car horn can be a sure sign of anger, joy, sadness, frustration etc. This is one very good reason why people swear primarily in their native tongue, they have that necessary emotional link.

As well as depicting any possible number of emotions swear words can be used also for any number of reasons: may be to shock, add force to an arguement, break down social barriers or provoke a reaction from others.

Swearing has also its benefits by liberating us of those feelings of anger, frustration, hate etc we hold and allows them expression. It can also be a useful and welcome substitute to physical violence. Using a language like this which should not be used in public in itself helps to create an intimacy elsewhere.

Swear words can also be used in a more positive manner, such as in humor, sexual discussion, storytelling, self-deprecation or even social commentary. A swear word always can come in handy in emphasizing how wonderful you feel, or any positive feelings you have for a particular object, situation or person. The swear word catches through its anti social nature the listeners attention and conveys at the same time our emotional attitude to others. Simply put a point is made and the people`s attention is being called for.

Its also ammusing to think about the words that we take for swearing and their true meaning - or even many words used being taken in the wrong context.

Another factor is the 'language' your speaking in - English is not 'English' in America or Australia (etc) and visa versa - so words they may use I could take as swearing etc whilst its completely innocent and accpetable where you are.

It is also inmportant to understand and realise the difference between 'swearing' and an insult or insulting language - AGAIN THERE ARE REGIONAL DIFFERENCES, AS WELL AS THE INDIVIDUALS PERSONAL FEELING.

Ooooopppps - laptop caps

anyway - much to think about

MTFBWY - A