posted 2 years ago
I think we need a balance between trying to be clear and inclusive, and avoid doing similar to complaining about people “not talking American” when they use terms we don’t understand. Every word was made up at some point from previously meaningless sounds, and many we use now come from foreign words, acronyms (RADAR) or combining multiple words for brevity in compound words.
It also seems inevitable that different regions, cultures, and age groups find different things offensive. For some, many words we may use with no malicious intent are equally offensive as an “f-bomb” might be for another. Either view can seem silly when we think about it all really being just like other apes grunting, but we would likely empathize if we knew the story of those offended. My Mom hated my using the f-word, but not so much other curses, because her father used it primarily when he was really off the rails and abusive. I still use it, as its English’s most versatile word, but I realize its probably to the detriment of my articulation (I love this point in “Skinny Legs and All”). I tried to avoid it around her, and would not direct it at anyone here or in front of me, because I don't like to upset people. However it would be a shame if any word were banned from the forum, and think the same about acronyms like WOFATI or other creative uses of language.
I want to be inclusive, and acronyms clearly have an exclusionary effect I described above, so I aspire to define them when I use them. I also aspire only use the f-word or other vulgarity when I think its truly the funniest or most descriptive verbiage. Apologies if I offend, or confuse anyone, but I do think decent communication requires responsibility to meet half way by both sides. Its not that hard for me to look up an esoteric term or acronym when I am already on the internet. I can also just ignore an inarticulate or ignorant post. Likewise, I can’t expect to be understood if I do not make the effort to be clear and respectful.
This is all just my opinion based on a flawed memory
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