posted on Apr, 22 2013 @ 08:08 PM
Originally posted by coruptedsector2
reply to post by esteay812
For the most part I agree with your reply, however I swear often under informal settings, and while you may or may not believe me, my vocabulary is
very extensive and larger than most I come across. In fact I have to avoid the use of the majority of my vocabulary because many people are unable to
understand the less commonly used words. When I speak I try to use words with the largest, most accurate meaning to convey my message. This helps me
be straight to the point, and avoid long winded conversations. I would like you to know that my use of swearing is dominated by emotion, not
intelligence, I am also very animated to help express these emotions through body language. There are many reasons for swearing, and I do believe
there are more and less acceptable times for it. I do think that for many swearing is an indication of a small vocabulary, although I hope you could
understand there are countless other reasons for swearing that do not include low intelligence or vocabulary.
I have no reason not to believe you. In fact, what you posted confirms my suggestion that vulgar words signal different things. The use of obscene
words/slang tends to point to the class a person was raised in and the class they are most comfortable existing in.
I hope you don't take that the wrong way, because we are all from different social classes.The vocabulary, used as a defining property of class, is
different at every level.
I can't imagine an upper-crust socialite would use obscene language when speaking with other members of her class, that would be derogatory to her
social status. On the other hand, I can't imagine a good 'ole boy speaking as if they are in an Ivy league debate.
While profane and obscene language serves to broadcast one's social status, it's not the only thing it does.
The use of informal/casual slang, profanity, and general obscenities plays a role in developing bonds in our personal, domestic lives. Showing a
relaxed dimeanor and using casual slang is a nod to becoming more comfortable in a newly formed friendship. It is a way to show that we are dropping
our guard, displaying our social class, and are comfortable with the new friend.
If the new friend recognizes this as conducive to their current social class, or a class they find acceptable, they will choose whether or not they
will be open to the bonding experience.
Obviously there are other dynamics in a bonding experience, but the use of casual slang and obscene language plays a role in the trust building and
bonding process.