Words are usually coined when we need to make useful distinctions not obvious in the current
vernacular. If we have at our disposal a nice, precise bit of language to
describe a particular concept, we generally use it. If we don’t, we have to
either cobble ourselves together a new one from other familiar words (I’m
currently fond of “crybully” and “humblebrag”), or borrow
one from another language (
schadenfreude is getting a little long in the tooth, but it’s still a beaut).
This is an ongoing process, for obvious
reasons. Through repeated misuse, the semantic range of our existing vocabulary
expands relentlessly until we get to the point that we can no longer make those
useful distinctions that are such a critical component of communication.
All to say that if you
can distinguish between the current, debased usage of “
profanity” (offensive
language), “
obscenity” (morally offensive language) and “
swearing” (profanity), good luck to you.
I can’t. Or really, this generation can’t.