Evolution Of Language.

[Atheist]

I notice that 'queer' now seems to be an acceptable alternative for 'homosexual', especially in the arts world - e.g. queer art, queer poetry, queer literature. 'Queer' used to be a derogatory term. I find it fascinating that language can evolve like this. I hope that I won't receive rude replies. Perhaps some 'gay' ABers might explain the current etiquette.

[woofgang]

I think its like BAME people using the n word, they can others shouldn't

[Atheist]

Doesn't BAME also apply to w**s, ***s, ch*****s, as well as n...? I understand that close groups can allow each other license when they speak amongst themselves. Is it OK for outsiders to use the same terminology? I wouldn't use 'queer' if I was talking to a homosexual; it might sound presumptious. Politeness would lead me to use a less familiar term.

[JimF]

I find myself increasingly out of touch with what's OK and what isn't. I certainly wouldn't refer to any of my gay friends as queer, and certainly not in their presence! Though, now I think of it, is "gay" still OK these days?

[Old_Geezer]

No one owns words. Claiming use is ok for some but not others is just hypocrisy.

Some words lose emotion if adopted by those it's aimed at. Conversely perfectly reasonable words and phrases can be claimed to be unacceptable insults by a new snowflake generation. I suspect just to cause trouble and awkwardness for others.

[Atheist]

OG - I don't really think that people change their terminology just to annoy you and your ilk. I trust that the 'snowflake' reference was a touch of humour.

[Old_Geezer]

No. Has to be so. There is no other explanation as to why a perfectly reasonable and accepted phrase is suddenly declared otherwise. And how is your ilk doing ?

[douglas9401]

One might suggest you're a bit late to the partay if you're only noticing now.

One must have a finger on the pulse if one intends to be a hep cat.

[JimF]

Gear!

[sanmac]

He suddenly ejaculated into the conversation.

[naomi24]

When anyone says ‘the N word’ the word *** runs instantly through the mind of the listener. Everyone knows what's being said so the obligation to use such ridiculous terminology is a complete nonsense. Even more ludicrous that the use of some words is restricted to selected sections of society only. It’s a mad world.

[woofgang]

my post vanished! It wasn't removed it just vanished.

As near as I can remember here it is
Atheist "Question Author OG - I don't really think that people change their terminology just to annoy you and your ilk"

and I said "yes they do, they have secret meetings where nothing else is discussed except how to cheese off OG and his ilk"