Sir, – Having recently heard the liberal use of the f-word on The Traitors programme, its visceral use at the Ryder Cup, and even the US president breaking norms using the word while speaking to reporters, I was still taken aback by the column heading “Swear words, properly deployed, add a richness to language” (Seán Moncrieff, October 4th).
Far from adding richness to a conversation, today’s casual acceptance of the use of swear words in everyday dialogue would once have been regarded as rude and vulgar. Times change and language changes but the words we use in vocabulary do still matter. Communicating thoughtfully rather than the repeated use of expletives earns respect and fosters a positive and healthier interaction with those around us.
An increase in crassness in language and in society does not advance the development of people in this world. – Yours, etc,
KEVIN McLOUGHLIN,
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Ballina,
Co Mayo.
