Do you misuse the word 'gay'?, What do you think about people that do? Options

[*Teenage Mutant Ninja Meg*]

I messed up the poll again... so, if you want to vote for the first one, just post it in a reply. Or one of the mods can fix it.

Personally, I find people who use the word "gay" to mean stupid is incredibly offensive. When a person says something like "THAT'S SO GAY!", I swear a blood vessel pops in my head. And when I bring it up with my friends, they say things like, "I have gay friends and they say it too!" Well, your gay friends are the only homosexuals in the whole world.

Anyway, what do you think of it? You obviously know my answer.

[I hope this is in the proper forum, if not feel free to move it!]

[*I Shot JFK*]

i may love you.

i think i've had this rant about 10 times on cb, more in real life. my ULTIMATE pet peeve.

and someone will say 'this thread is gay', btw, so brace yourself for it.

[*Teenage Mutant Ninja Meg*]

i may love you.

i think i've had this rant about 10 times on cb, more in real life. my ULTIMATE pet peeve.

and someone will say 'this thread is gay', btw, so brace yourself for it.

I'm prepared.
Thanks for the support!

[*I Shot JFK*]

no worries. i made a similar thread myself AGES ago... kind of just turned into a massive argument. was great fun!

[*Teenage Mutant Ninja Meg*]

no worries. i made a similar thread myself AGES ago... kind of just turned into a massive argument. was great fun!

Haha, some debates are fun... some just get plain nasty!

[*StanleyThePanda*]

I dont usually misuse it, no.

Rarely.... Alot of the people who are offended by it are straight, I havent met a gay person who was offended by it. So yeah, thats kind of silly to me. I know alot of people who misuse it.

I dont really mind, maybe I should but w/e

[radhikaeatsraman]

No. It's stupid to misuse the word "gay." Gay is not a synonym for "stupid."

[*chaneun*]

To be honest, I misuse it. I don't do it often, though. I try not to say it, though.

[fathomlessdame]

im sorry but i use it to mean stupid. its kinda a habit a friend of mine told me off for calling my teacher gay once.... i need to learn to stop cussing and saying gay as much as i do

[voguelove]

i missuse it all the time but i think its just a common habbit for lots of teens.

i usually say it without even thinking.

[oneandonlytammie]

This thread is soooo gay. Just kidding.

Yeah it bothers me when people use that all the time. Since it's a new thing to use it as a synonym for dumb, I sometimes will let it slip, because people around me say it, without even thinking. But I always apologise.

[iDecay]

I used to misuse it, but I don't now. I've learned, haha. A lot of my friends still do, though. "OMGosh. Did you see his outfit?! GAY!" "Your layout is gay!"

[jue]

I misuse it alot. I agree with APPLEjuicex, i think its a habbit for some teens. When i say it i don't mean to offend anyone but it just comes out without me noticing.

[*AngelicEyz00*]

I misuse it at times, but it's usually at home towards my brothers... I don't use it as much as I used to. I can understand why it can bother people, though.

[Smoogrish]

I absolutely hate it when people do that. I was trying to explain to this kid in English the other day why you shouldn't do it, and she kept saying, "Well, I wouldn't care if people used black as a derogatory term." It. Just makes me angry when people do that. Thanks for bringing this up.

[crazeegirl411]

You see...to me, if you think saying that word is offensive, it means you're taking "gay people" differently. Things like "gay" and "retarded" don't even mean the same thing anymore. As long as you don't say it and MEAN it as something like metally retarded or homosexual gay then it is served as a "second" meaning.

It's like if you take it offensively, you're taking it the other way...you're the one actually viewing these words along with actual gay people and actual retarded people. When the other people aren't even remotely thinking about it.

[xosteffanator]

gay actually means "happy" so people are saying you're so happy, or that layout is so happy like wth? the correct term is "queer" reffering to homosexuals and etc. I don't overuse it, only sometimes.

[AngryBaby]

i admit i used to. some of my friend still do like "dude, dont be gay"

then i thought of it this way, its basically kinda like saying "dude dont be so asian" or "dude dont be so black" lol "

and so now when my friends say something like " dude thats so gay"

im like " i know, thats soo homosexual dude"

then they relize how stupid it sounds, but thats only if i remember to do it lol. cuz im so used to it

[*My Cinderella.*]

No. I don't misuse it. I find it irritating when people replace the word "stupid" with "gay".

[*I Shot JFK*]

You see...to me, if you think saying that word is offensive, it means you're taking "gay people" differently. Things like "gay" and "retarded" don't even mean the same thing anymore. As long as you don't say it and MEAN it as something like metally retarded or homosexual gay then it is served as a "second" meaning.

It's like if you take it offensively, you're taking it the other way...you're the one actually viewing these words along with actual gay people and actual retarded people. When the other people aren't even remotely thinking about it.

wel surely it isnt desireable to use a word that can so easily be interpretted in a way that causes offense

[hi-C]

I used to, back in high school. Then I came to college and stopped totally. Perhaps because I became friends with gay people, maybe it was the diversity workshop we had during orientation, I don't know.

[flc]

I use the word. I just see it as today's other way of saying stupid.

[imnoxonesmemory]

i say "gay" for everything. unless i know there is a bi/gay person around me, then i feel insulting.

[*Teenage Mutant Ninja Meg*]

You see...to me, if you think saying that word is offensive, it means you're taking "gay people" differently. Things like "gay" and "retarded" don't even mean the same thing anymore. As long as you don't say it and MEAN it as something like metally retarded or homosexual gay then it is served as a "second" meaning.

It's like if you take it offensively, you're taking it the other way...you're the one actually viewing these words along with actual gay people and actual retarded people. When the other people aren't even remotely thinking about it.

Even if you don't mean it, they can still take it that way. People need to think about what they say, before they say it. I really don't care if everybody around you doesn't mind, it really bothers me. I'm bisexual, and I don't think I need to hear, "THAT'S SO GAY!" every single day I'm at school or in public. It's just like walking up to somebody and saying, "Hey, nigger! Oh sorry, I just meant HEY, BUDDY!"

Thank you for all the supporters!

[hi-C]

I use the word. I just see it as today's other way of saying stupid.

But don't you think that comes off offensive towards someone who identifies as being gay?

[flc]

But don't you think that comes off offensive towards someone who identifies as being gay?

It shouldn't. Because that's what they are, gay. Even the most educated people use gay for identifying homosexuals. It's not an offensive word. I know my gay friends wouldn't care if I called them gay, but they would if I called them fags.

And what about people who sometimes use gay for happy? Should homosexuals get mad at that?

Are you saying that if I said, "I hate black," like the color black, around a black person, they would be offended?

[hi-C]

^ Well, yeah, I know that, but you're equating gay with stupid. You don't think that's offensive?

[flc]

^ Well, yeah, I know that, but you're equating gay with stupid. You don't think that's offensive?

I'm not calling gay people stupid. What I meant that, seperate from homosexual, in today's society gay has taken on a different meaning, like how it meant happy back then. I am in no way linking homosexuality with stupidity, and people shouldn't see it that way either.

People are getting WAY too sensitive these days..

[aicilah999]

I HATE IT WHEN PPL MISUSE IT...annoys me...
haha. even tho i misuse it sometimes. not much tho. but i hate ppl that use 'gay' like in every convo they have and stuff.

[SKDMNLE]

Well, yeah, I use it with certian people. I say it with the people I know can take it with out being offended. Like some of my friends, I joke around with them, and sometimes I call some of my homosexual friends fags. This was of course, after they said it was okay. He calls himself a fag, in that matter.

[*I Shot JFK*]

I'm not calling gay people stupid. What I meant that, seperate from homosexual, in today's society gay has taken on a different meaning, like how it meant happy back then. I am in no way linking homosexuality with stupidity, and people shouldn't see it that way either.

People are getting WAY too sensitive these days..

so, if someone is offended by what you say, it is entirely teir fault for being to sensitive, and you have no responsiblity to adapt to their offense?

[nopattern]

lots of people get mad over this but i don't care. i don't hate gays, my best friend is, but it's just one of those things. most gays don't care. it's like calling a white person a cracker or something like that.

and the ones who get offended over it are the majority of the time, not gay.

[flc]

so, if someone is offended by what you say, it is entirely teir fault for being to sensitive, and you have no responsiblity to adapt to their offense?

Yeah. That's pretty much it. I might sound like an a-hole, but they have to get over it. It's not like I use the word gay after every word I say. THAT would get annoying. I only use it when something really bothers me, which isn't that often.

But most likely, this person who is getting offended isn't my friend and someone I would never have to see or talk to again. Because if I know my friends well, they wouldn't get so angry over a stupid word. If it was someone I truly cared about, and they gave me a REALLY good explanation for why it bothered them, then I would of course stop using it around them.

Because like mo rox said, most gays don't care. Then it IS that person's fault for being too sensitive. Because other gays could just say, "Hey, it isn't that big of a deal."

[so_jentran]

i'll have to admit, i do misuse it..and most of the time it doesn't make sense lol

[Rachel]

I definently remember that thread James, we should merge the two or something.


Anyway, I try my hardest not to use gay out of context. I do get frustrated sometimes and it comes out and then I slap myself and take it back. I usually reply to people in this fashion:
"Omg, that test was SOOO gay!"
Me-"Really, the test likes to have sex with other male tests?!"

[flc]

"Omg, that test was SOOO gay!"
Me-"Really, the test likes to have sex with other male tests?!"

Or you could have said, "Really, that test was so joyful?"

You don't ONLY have to identify gay with homosexual. And that's what I think people are doing nowadays. Using gay as stupid, like how gay was happy before.

[crazeegirl411]

wel surely it isnt desireable to use a word that can so easily be interpretted in a way that causes offense

Then why do people use words like f*ck and and b*tch. Why don't you guys feel offended for female dogs because we call other people b*tches? By being so sensitive for gay people, you are seperating them from us even more. They're the same people, but it seems like gay people have to be more offended by such things, when they're not even talking about them.

As someone said and I have said, there are multiple meanings. Society now gave it perhaps its third meaning, stupidity. Would you think someone back in the day that said, "I am gay," misused the word and offended gay people?

Even if you don't mean it, they can still take it that way. People need to think about what they say, before they say it. I really don't care if everybody around you doesn't mind, it really bothers me. I'm bisexual, and I don't think I need to hear, "THAT'S SO GAY!" every single day I'm at school or in public. It's just like walking up to somebody and saying, "Hey, nigger! Oh sorry, I just meant HEY, BUDDY!"

Thank you for all the supporters!

Um...but it's different. "Hey, nigger," is a greeting. "That's so GAY" is describing something. If you're going to compare, it's like, "Hey gay girl/guy!" And seriously how many people actually greet you like that?

Don't get me wrong. I don't use that word like "that's gay" or "you're so gay." I don't mind when others do. It's just slang. Now if people said that at the office or my boss said that to me, I would view them differently..because it's slang. But it's just normal talking with friends, I know they don't mean it like homosexual. It's just not in my vocabulary though. I still just call people stupid.

...And somehow, calling them stupid is not worse than calling them gay? Have you ever thought of when "stupid" actually offended people? Until people understood that it is not actually a big deal, and that people don't actually MEAN that you are stupid?

[NgocQuyen]

hmm well, i used to a lot. but that was a while ago and i was pretty retarded. i don't really use "gay" anymore. i say "homosexual" ex. "this homework is so homosexual" my friends know what i mean. and if you're going to judge me by just what i say, then so be it.

[Paradox of Life]

I HATE IT WHEN PPL MISUSE IT...annoys me...

even tho i misuse it sometimes.

You hate it when people misuse it even though you do it too? Hypocrite, much? Using 'gay' as a derogatory term is offensive and ignorant, period. Whether you "sometimes" do it or always do it.

I dislike when people describe things that are 'stupid' or 'unreasonable' as 'gay'. I find it rude and ignorant. I have never heard an intelligent person call something or someone gay as a derogatory term. Before you use the word gay, think of the dozens of other words you could use to sound at least remotely intelligent.

[*I Shot JFK*]

Yeah. That's pretty much it. I might sound like an a-hole, but they have to get over it. It's not like I use the word gay after every word I say. THAT would get annoying. I only use it when something really bothers me, which isn't that often.

But most likely, this person who is getting offended isn't my friend and someone I would never have to see or talk to again. Because if I know my friends well, they wouldn't get so angry over a stupid word. If it was someone I truly cared about, and they gave me a REALLY good explanation for why it bothered them, then I would of course stop using it around them.

Because like mo rox said, most gays don't care. Then it IS that person's fault for being too sensitive. Because other gays could just say, "Hey, it isn't that big of a deal."

you're a charmer, arent you?

so, one person's opinion is invalid because it is more sensitive than the majority? why wait to find someone it truly offends? why not use a term which doesnt make you sound ignorant?

Then why do people use words like f*ck and and b*tch. Why don't you guys feel offended for female dogs because we call other people b*tches? By being so sensitive for gay people, you are seperating them from us even more. They're the same people, but it seems like gay people have to be more offended by such things, when they're not even talking about them.

the point about bitch was just stupid. as if you cant tell the distinction. as far as f**k goes, i take your point, but my feelings regarding 'gay' isn't so much because the word is offensive in itself, but because it is specifically derogatory towards one group of people. surely, it is better to seperate a group by being sensitive towards them than by using their label in a derogatory way?

As someone said and I have said, there are multiple meanings. Society now gave it perhaps its third meaning, stupidity. Would you think someone back in the day that said, "I am gay," misused the word and offended gay people?

no, because the use of gay to mean happy predates the use of it to mean homosexual. to expect a cease in the use of it to mean happy would be unreasonable. but it is not unreasonable to expect people to be more sensitive now that it DOES have conotations with a sector of society, i do no find it acceptable for the 'third meaning' to evolve.

Um...but it's different. "Hey, nigger," is a greeting. "That's so GAY" is describing something. If you're going to compare, it's like, "Hey gay girl/guy!" And seriously how many people actually greet you like that?

could you REALLY not see the paralell that she was trying to draw? you've missed her point utterly by that response.

...And somehow, calling them stupid is not worse than calling them gay? Have you ever thought of when "stupid" actually offended people? Until people understood that it is not actually a big deal, and that people don't actually MEAN that you are stupid?

well obviously the word stupid will cause offense to th eperson it is directed towards. but there is not a clear third party who could ALSO take offense, and that makes the difference.

*******

a question for those who find the term to be acceptable: what are your feelings towards people who use 'fag' as an insult? they may or may not mean it to mean 'homosexual', but it still cast a negative light upon people who are actually gay, by implying that their lifestyle is something to be ashamed of, and to direct at people you wish to offend

[juliar]

i stopped saying it out loud and usually i dont online. and if i mean gay offensively, i just say "ghey" especially in games because then people know i'm not referring to gay people.

i dont really mind people saying things are gay though (my gay friend says it).

[Paul M. is baaac...]

I do use it un-approprately, to mock of ridocule somebody.

[flc]

you're a charmer, arent you?

so, one person's opinion is invalid because it is more sensitive than the majority? why wait to find someone it truly offends? why not use a term which doesnt make you sound ignorant?

Look, kiddo.

No, I'm not saying they're invalid. I shouldn't have put it in those words. What I am saying, though, is that, when EVERYONE around you is fine with it, and ignoring it, and you're making a huge fuss, don't you think that kind of makes you seem a little mad?

Example: I could, personally, find your username offensive. I could say you're treating Kennedy's assasination as a joke. Just because I alone could find it offensive, are you going to change your username to please one person? Probably not. But I wouldn't keep bugging the hell out of you to change it. I would accept it and move on with my life, like that person should who got offended. They need to realize that a lot of things in life are offensive and they can't get their way with everything everytime. {Even though when I say that something is gay I'm not meaning to calling gay people stupid, like I've said 33586974 times.}

I'm not going to keep talking about this with you. I posted that I use the word innapropriately, as well as many others. Why the hell are you getting on my back? I gave my reasons for why I use the word. No matter how much you disagree, they're my reasons.

As far as I know, I haven't offended anyone who's heard me use it, which isn't often. When someone comes up to me and tells me it really bothers them, I will gladly stop. What I think is that you guys are blowing this out of proportion. I don't think that this is even an issue, but maybe it's because of the area I live in.

I haven't lost any friends because of using this word once in a great while, because they know I'm not actually insulting homosexuals, like how people aren't actually swearing at God when they yell, "God damnit!"

It doesn't really matter if the meaning of gay now is homosexual. People are still going to use it as stupid when they think something is dumb. I don't know who came up with this idea that we should use gay as stupid, but it's there. And there isn't really much you can do about it.

[EddieV]

I used to say it a lot, though now I don't say it as much as I used to.

[oXMuhNirvanaXo]

yes I do some times ..

[*I Shot JFK*]

Look, kiddo.

No, I'm not saying they're invalid. I shouldn't have put it in those words. What I am saying, though, is that, when EVERYONE around you is fine with it, and ignoring it, and you're making a huge fuss, don't you think that kind of makes you seem a little mad?

I'm not going to keep talking about this with you. I posted that I use the word innapropriately, as well as many others. Why the hell are you getting on my back? I gave my reasons for why I use the word. No matter how much you disagree, they're my reasons.

As far as I know, I haven't offended anyone who's heard me use it, which isn't often. When someone comes up to me and tells me it really bothers them, I will gladly stop. What I think is that you guys are blowing this out of proportion. I don't think that this is even an issue, but maybe it's because of the area I live in.

I haven't lost any friends because of using this word once in a great while, because they know I'm not actually insulting homosexuals, like how people aren't actually swearing at God when they yell, "God damnit!"

It doesn't really matter if the meaning of gay now is homosexual. People are still going to use it as stupid when they think something is dumb. I don't know who came up with this idea that we should use gay as stupid, but it's there. And there isn't really much you can do about it.

dont patronize. its a waste of energy, and reflects badly on you

im getting on your back because i find it distasteful. i am well aware that this is your view, and you are entitled to express your view. i am equally entitled to tell you that i think that it is a load of sh*t. in the nicest possible way, of course. oh honestly, as if its personal.

and do i appear to be the only one in this thread who finds it objectionable? and if i appear mad, i consider i have good reason for my madness.

and i still dont understand is this: if you are willing to stop if someone tells you it bothers them, then why wait? why not just find somethign which doesnt make you sound ignorant and misguided?

people will use it. and i, personally am incapable of stopping it in the broad scale. but if, by harassing people who use it around me, i can stop them using it, i will continue to do so. i've stopped at least two of my friends saying it, and that is reason enogu for me to keep harassing you, or anyone else who cares to have this conversation with me, or who i hear or see use it inappropriately.

[flc]

dont patronize. its a waste of energy, and reflects badly on you

im getting on your back because i find it distasteful. i am well aware that this is your view, and you are entitled to express your view. i am equally entitled to tell you that i think that it is a load of sh*t. in the nicest possible way, of course. oh honestly, as if its personal.

and do i appear to be the only one in this thread who finds it objectionable? and if i appear mad, i consider i have good reason for my madness.

and i still dont understand is this: if you are willing to stop if someone tells you it bothers them, then why wait? why not just find somethign which doesnt make you sound ignorant and misguided?

people will use it. and i, personally am incapable of stopping it in the broad scale. but if, by harassing people who use it around me, i can stop them using it, i will continue to do so. i've stopped at least two of my friends saying it, and that is reason enogu for me to keep harassing you, or anyone else who cares to have this conversation with me, or who i hear or see use it inappropriately.

Heh, I guess I will talk with you some more then.

And you patronized me as well, saying, "You're a charmer, aren't you?" Just to let you know.

I won't stop because I see no need to. I usually don't say it outside of school, where there are like, what, two gays who I don't talk to anyway. I could understand what you're saying if I was constantly saying it in a different setting, where there could be tons of gays around. But really. Rarely do I actually say it when a gay person is there.

It's just a three-letter word. I know words can be powerful, but actions DO speak louder than words. If you knew me in real life, you'd know that I respect gays as much as the next guy. Since people know this, they're not going to give me a hard time about using this word.

And why do I wait? BECAUSE IT DOESN'T BOTHER ANYONE I SAY IT AROUND. It seems to be bothering you more than it would a gay person, at least at this moment.

And do you know how arrogant that sounds? Especially with saying that you'll harrass people until they stop saying it? That sounds JUST like my Atheist friend who argues with every Christian around him, trying to get them to denounce their religion. I bet your friends stopped saying not because they finally understood it was wrong, but because they didn't wanna get anymore crap from you.

Let's say, for instance, that gays didn't actually get offended by the use of this word. Just because YOU find it distasteful, you have to make everyone else think the same way you do?

I know you didn't see this part of my post, because you quoted me after I edited it, but I'm just curious: Example: I could, personally, find your username offensive. I could say you're treating Kennedy's assasination as a joke. Just because I alone could find it offensive, are you going to change your username to please one person? Probably not. But I wouldn't keep bugging the hell out of you to change it. I would accept it and move on with my life, like that person should who got offended. They need to realize that a lot of things in life are offensive and they can't get their way with everything everytime. {Even though when I say that something is gay I'm not meaning to calling gay people stupid, like I've said 33586974 times.}

So please, just stop. I have full respect for what you're saying, even if I don't sound like it. But with me, at least, it's a losing battle. Go harrass those other people who also said they use the word.

[Jorge]

'this thread is gay'

[flc]

'this thread is gay'

You're being extremely offensive.

[x1049]

I don't really say the word in general, but when i DO say it, i'm probably not meaning the 18th centry definition of "happy".

gay just isnt a descriptive word that rolls off the tounge as easily as "dumb" or "sucks" as in instead of "that's gay." i'd say "that's dumb." or "that sucks." :D

[Jorge]

You're being extremely offensive.

It's sarcasm. Read the second or third post and you'll see what I'm getting at.

[flc]

It's sarcasm. Read the second or third post and you'll see what I'm getting at.

I was being sarcastic too.

[Teesa]

I sometimes misuse it, but I don't really use that word anymore. I'm not really bothered by others who use it, but it is sometimes annoying.

[crazeegirl411]

the point about bitch was just stupid. as if you cant tell the distinction. as far as f**k goes, i take your point, but my feelings regarding 'gay' isn't so much because the word is offensive in itself, but because it is specifically derogatory towards one group of people. surely, it is better to seperate a group by being sensitive towards them than by using their label in a derogatory way?

Excuse me. Don't give your opinions about what's stupid or not. At least have something to back up why you think it's stupid. There isn't much of a difference, but instead, you just target it at the word "gay." Have I not said already that the people that use it do not use it while thinking of that certain group of people? Being sensitive towards them only means you are thinking of them differently rather than treating them like the same as everyone else.

no, because the use of gay to mean happy predates the use of it to mean homosexual. to expect a cease in the use of it to mean happy would be unreasonable. but it is not unreasonable to expect people to be more sensitive now that it DOES have conotations with a sector of society, i do no find it acceptable for the 'third meaning' to evolve.

That's even more unreasonable than the people that use the word "gay" to describe things or people that are stupid. Meanwhile you are probably accepting other words that have evolved, but you cannot accept the third meaning of gay because you are being sensitive. Which brings back to the first part where you are thinking of them differently rather than treating them like the same kind of people.

could you REALLY not see the paralell that she was trying to draw? you've missed her point utterly by that response.

Then you have missed my point utterly. It is NOT parallel because she is putting a greeting with an adjective. "Hi Nigger" and "That's so gay," is a completely different way to use the word "nigger" and "gay."

well obviously the word stupid will cause offense to th eperson it is directed towards. but there is not a clear third party who could ALSO take offense, and that makes the difference.

Do you ever stop saying something completely just because someone takes offense to it? Ever?

a question for those who find the term to be acceptable: what are your feelings towards people who use 'fag' as an insult? they may or may not mean it to mean 'homosexual', but it still cast a negative light upon people who are actually gay, by implying that their lifestyle is something to be ashamed of, and to direct at people you wish to offend

Same for people that use fag. How many people actually think the person it is directed upon is described as homosexual? The people that actually think homosexuals are different, thinks of it. It is the same kind of name calling with b*tch. To you, obviously from what you have written at the very start, it is different. How is it different? It is directed to a certain group also. Are you viewing gay people differently?

For example, let's say someone lost his leg due to a car accident. It is right to be sensitive about it. But if someone jokes around about it, it doesn't mean that person is meaning to offend the person that lost his leg. It means he is not even thinking about it and treating him like he is just a normal person.

[*SuzieRawkSoxx*]

Umm i dont really even use that word im just like "bro.. go play in traffic with a bag over your head" lmao.

[*I Shot JFK*]

Excuse me. Don't give your opinions about what's stupid or not. At least have something to back up why you think it's stupid. There isn't much of a difference, but instead, you just target it at the word "gay." Have I not said already that the people that use it do not use it while thinking of that certain group of people? Being sensitive towards them only means you are thinking of them differently rather than treating them like the same as everyone else.

That's even more unreasonable than the people that use the word "gay" to describe things or people that are stupid. Meanwhile you are probably accepting other words that have evolved, but you cannot accept the third meaning of gay because you are being sensitive. Which brings back to the first part where you are thinking of them differently rather than treating them like the same kind of people.

Then you have missed my point utterly. It is NOT parallel because she is putting a greeting with an adjective. "Hi Nigger" and "That's so gay," is a completely different way to use the word "nigger" and "gay."

Do you ever stop saying something completely just because someone takes offense to it? Ever?
Same for people that use fag. How many people actually think the person it is directed upon is described as homosexual? The people that actually think homosexuals are different, thinks of it. It is the same kind of name calling with b*tch. To you, obviously from what you have written at the very start, it is different. How is it different? It is directed to a certain group also. Are you viewing gay people differently?

For example, let's say someone lost his leg due to a car accident. It is right to be sensitive about it. But if someone jokes around about it, it doesn't mean that person is meaning to offend the person that lost his leg. It means he is not even thinking about it and treating him like he is just a normal person.

well, you said am i worried about 'bitch' offending female dogs...

Then why do people use words like f*ck and and b*tch. Why don't you guys feel offended for female dogs because we call other people b*tches?

that IS just stupid, as well as childish, because it is a trivial, non sensical point, as female dogs are not capable of feeling offended by it... you are equating the emotions of an animal with that of a human being. I certainly feel that that is justification enough for saying it was a stupid point. It was a ridiculou thing to say

- yea, i accept other words that evolved... thats the point. but this one has a predefinition (word?) which makes the third definition offensive. that is the difference between it and othe rnew slang.

- no no... i understood your point, it just wasnt very good. its STILL the same thing, because it is the casual use of a word which may offend... are you honestly too dense to see that?

- to be honest, i cant think of a word which i use frequently which could be offensive to a group of people... if someone could give me a reasobale explanation of why it was offensive, then yes, i would try as much as possible to break that habit.

- cant be botherd to row about fag, because its the same argument over again.

Heh, I guess I will talk with you some more then.

And you patronized me as well, saying, "You're a charmer, aren't you?" Just to let you know.

I won't stop because I see no need to. I usually don't say it outside of school, where there are like, what, two gays who I don't talk to anyway. I could understand what you're saying if I was constantly saying it in a different setting, where there could be tons of gays around. But really. Rarely do I actually say it when a gay person is there.

It's just a three-letter word. I know words can be powerful, but actions DO speak louder than words. If you knew me in real life, you'd know that I respect gays as much as the next guy. Since people know this, they're not going to give me a hard time about using this word.

And why do I wait? BECAUSE IT DOESN'T BOTHER ANYONE I SAY IT AROUND. It seems to be bothering you more than it would a gay person, at least at this moment.

And do you know how arrogant that sounds? Especially with saying that you'll harrass people until they stop saying it? That sounds JUST like my Atheist friend who argues with every Christian around him, trying to get them to denounce their religion. I bet your friends stopped saying not because they finally understood it was wrong, but because they didn't wanna get anymore crap from you.

Let's say, for instance, that gays didn't actually get offended by the use of this word. Just because YOU find it distasteful, you have to make everyone else think the same way you do?

I know you didn't see this part of my post, because you quoted me after I edited it, but I'm just curious: Example: I could, personally, find your username offensive. I could say you're treating Kennedy's assasination as a joke. Just because I alone could find it offensive, are you going to change your username to please one person? Probably not. But I wouldn't keep bugging the hell out of you to change it. I would accept it and move on with my life, like that person should who got offended. They need to realize that a lot of things in life are offensive and they can't get their way with everything everytime. {Even though when I say that something is gay I'm not meaning to calling gay people stupid, like I've said 33586974 times.}

So please, just stop. I have full respect for what you're saying, even if I don't sound like it. But with me, at least, it's a losing battle. Go harrass those other people who also said they use the word.

oh good, i like this conversation.

that wasnt intended to be patronizing, really... sorry if you took it that way. i was just expressing dislike for what you said.

well, see, i think there is a fundamental difference in our philosophies. i see it as my responsibility not to give offense. you see it as others responsibility not to take offense. it boils down to that. it jsut seems stupid to me to acknowledge that something has the potential to cause offense, and then not bother to stop in advance.

i am arrogant, i have a very high opinion of myself, a big ego, and im agressive with my opinions. i make no apologies for it. and frankly, i could care less why they stopped. its all a means to an end, either way.

interesting. see, i can see where you;re going, but the difference to me is that with gay, or nigger, or what have you, there is a spefiic, ready made sector who could potentially be offended, and you see it coming. with my user name, i dont see a strong potential for offense. if it is one person, then yeah, probably i wouldn't be that fussed, because there is no argument which says it is personally degrading, or attaches negative conotations to them. plus, of course, i really did shoot jfk, so it is neither here nor there.

oh, i dont let things go. ever. getting me to stop is an equally losing battle. and i have an equal respect for what you say. 'I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to your death the right to say it'. <--- words i live by

[*Girthy*]

Voltaire, nice touch. Anywho....

interesting. see, i can see where you;re going, but the difference to me is that with gay, or nigger, or what have you, there is a spefiic, ready made sector who could potentially be offended

Ok, so are you implying gay people are offended when being called gay?

[*I Shot JFK*]

well no. im saying that when the word 'gay' is used to mean stupid or whatever, it attaches a negative conotation to the word in its other forms, which is offensive. was that not clear?

[*Girthy*]

I agree I agree, but if the given situation were in a group of friends who knows that you are joking, would that still not be acceptable?

[*I Shot JFK*]

I agree I agree, but if the given situation were in a group of friends who knows that you are joking, would that still not be acceptable?

well that depends. even if i knew someone was joking, or didnt mean any offense, i would still find it distasteful

[fatal emotions]

I've misused the word "gay" alot in the passed.. I've cut down on it alot because some people found it offensive.

[visualfusion]

In my opinion, only people with little self-esteem would be offended by offensive words. If you know the word doesn't apply to you, you should be laughing at the idiot that says it, not crying a river about it.

[Paul M. is baaac...]

Funily enough, anybody I've used it on hasn't found it offensive.

[Jorge]

I use it daily, I could really care less if people get offended. It all falls back on freedom of speech. It's not profanity, it's nothing racial, vulgar. But it can offend people and it's their choice how to handle it.

[Paul M. is baaac...]

Well, to take it badly, I believe you would have to think a bit too much into the whole thing, or, to a certain extent, suffer from a mild case of...being homophobic.

[*I Shot JFK*]

In my opinion, only people with little self-esteem would be offended by offensive words. If you know the word doesn't apply to you, you should be laughing at the idiot that says it, not crying a river about it.

your font is irritating.

and isnt trying to stop the person in question mor eproductive than just laughing at them?

I use it daily, I could really care less if people get offended. It all falls back on freedom of speech. It's not profanity, it's nothing racial, vulgar. But it can offend people and it's their choice how to handle it.

well obviously its your legal right to use it. it's just unpleasant. and doesnt the offended party have a right to interpret the vulgarity of a term, as much as the one who used the term? you say its nothing racial... then what isyour view on the use of 'nigger'? do you no tsee the parallel?

[Jorge]

But do homosexual people call eachother Gay's?

[*I Shot JFK*]

well they refer to the 'gay population', and refer to one another as being gay, so i suppose so, yes. why?

[uLoVeMikeRoch]

I messed up the poll again... so, if you want to vote for the first one, just post it in a reply. Or one of the mods can fix it.

Personally, I find people who use the word "gay" to mean stupid is incredibly offensive. When a person says something like "THAT'S SO GAY!", I swear a blood vessel pops in my head. And when I bring it up with my friends, they say things like, "I have gay friends and they say it too!" Well, your gay friends are the only homosexuals in the whole world.

Anyway, what do you think of it? You obviously know my answer.

[I hope this is in the proper forum, if not feel free to move it!]

Haha, Hell yes I do.

[NoSex]

This is the thing: I don't adhere to the predominant superstitions of language. Most notably, the idea that certain sounds, when put together to form words, can become inherently wrong, bad, and offensive. However, I do have my standards in economy of language as well as standards that slip into regions of speech.

I might go so far as to say that I am not so much offended by it's derogatory use but rather, it's unimaginative, beaten to death, dry, ignorant, and low essence. Of course it makes absolutely no sense, given that you do not actually believe homosexuality to be inherently derogatory, to use the word "gay" in the manners described in this thread. Why should we use it in such ways? What is the point?

We have all heard it used, and by the age of 12 it really isn't anything special. Any half-witted simpleton can declare the "gayness" of his most despised exotic food, or his closest rival, or that door that slammed shut on his dumb ass. We've all heard it, and we have to realize how little sense it truly makes. Also, it's important to realize how dull it is. It's just shortsighted and worthless. I won't exactly think low of you for using it, nor will I exactly become offended, but I might suspect a bit of slowness on your part.

[Jorge]

Yes, but they don't all go around using it a misleading way unlike what you stayed as using the n word.

[*Zatanna*]

Every once in a while I'll say something like, "that's so gay!" I honestly don't mean any harm. I understand that it could be considered offensive to some, so I try to limit how many times (if at all anymore) I say that, particularly because my son repeats EVERYTHING I say.

[*I Shot JFK*]

Yes, but they don't all go around using it a misleading way unlike what you stayed as using the n word.

i think you may have over thought what i said...

[tanichick]

I always missuse the word gay like...

"oh wow, thats sooo freaking gay!"

:( I don't mean to it just comes out, and I know that it affects many people in negative ways...

[parallel]

no worries. i made a similar thread myself AGES ago... kind of just turned into a massive argument. was great fun!

HAHAH ohboy.

I didn't vote, but I don't usually say it. It slips sometimes and yea.
Then you get attacked verbally by the people who don't "agree" with using the word that way.
Ahh whateva.

[*incoherent*]

gay actually means "happy" so people are saying you're so happy, or that layout is so happy like wth? the correct term is "queer" reffering to homosexuals and etc. I don't overuse it, only sometimes.

you just reminded me of a 7 year old...

"gay means happy"

i tend to not use it. people at my school have since changed it to "that's straight".

[*tahco_monster*]

i use it all the time :x
and i agree with tanichick.

i'm just used to it.

[crazeegirl411]

that IS just stupid, as well as childish, because it is a trivial, non sensical point, as female dogs are not capable of feeling offended by it... you are equating the emotions of an animal with that of a human being. I certainly feel that that is justification enough for saying it was a stupid point. It was a ridiculou thing to say

- yea, i accept other words that evolved... thats the point. but this one has a predefinition (word?) which makes the third definition offensive. that is the difference between it and othe rnew slang.

- no no... i understood your point, it just wasnt very good. its STILL the same thing, because it is the casual use of a word which may offend... are you honestly too dense to see that?

- to be honest, i cant think of a word which i use frequently which could be offensive to a group of people... if someone could give me a reasobale explanation of why it was offensive, then yes, i would try as much as possible to break that habit.

- cant be botherd to row about fag, because its the same argument over again.

I'm getting tired of this. You're putting your opinions in this way too much. "It's stupid, it's ridiculous, are you too dense?"

If you think that comparing animal and human being is different, then comparing a greeting with the adjective is the same thing. It's the same thing in equating two different things.

I didn't necessarily mean it's a word used frequently. But okay...

[*My Cinderella.*]

Ever since I found out my sister was...that way. I've never misused it since.

[AngryBaby]

guys i just wanna address something, dont use badass anymore.


its offending the donkeys

[flc]

^ That made my day. =)

I'm getting tired of this. You're putting your opinions in this way too much. "It's stupid, it's ridiculous, are you too dense?"

Well..he IS allowed to post his opinions, even though he doesn't have to be so scathing about it.

[AngryBaby]

yeah jfk dude is kinda mean... unecessarilly mean, taking it a little too personally mean, so mean that I- hey im not in this!


haha look at the sites on the bottom of the page, "Gay priests" hehehehehe


"hottest gay jewelry" hehehe

[imm]

That's soo straight! Eh, I don't really appreciate it when people use "gay" synonymously with "stupid" or the likes. But whatever, freedom of speech. Just don't get your ass kicked.

[crazeegirl411]

^ That made my day. =)
Well..he IS allowed to post his opinions, even though he doesn't have to be so scathing about it.

I know. This whole "argument" is opinionated, but remarks like "your point is stupid" is just unnecessary.

[beambitious]

Like last year to two years ago, I would really misuse and probably say it for everything. Some kids at my school still use it and one time I mentioned to them that gay had an alternate meaning, happy. They just stared at me and still continue to misuse it.

[*I Shot JFK*]

I'm getting tired of this. You're putting your opinions in this way too much. "It's stupid, it's ridiculous, are you too dense?"

If you think that comparing animal and human being is different, then comparing a greeting with the adjective is the same thing. It's the same thing in equating two different things.

I didn't necessarily mean it's a word used frequently. But okay...

well... this is about opinions... you're opinion is that it is fine, mine is that it isnt... kind of the point of this kind of discussion.

see, now you're frustrating me. animals do not feel degraded by the use of bitch. it is no ta possibility. gay PEOPLE can. therein lies that difference.

the use of something as an adjective, vs that of a greeting is not a significant differenc, because it is STILL the casual use of a word which may cause offense in everyday conversation. the fact that you've got this hangup about parts of speech is preventing useful progression of the conversation. if you can explain to me why the part of speech is significant, then do so, rather than just stating the obvious.

Well..he IS allowed to post his opinions, even though he doesn't have to be so scathing about it.

well the point WAS ridiculous. dont say something in a debate or whatever and then assume no one will call you on it.

but remarks like "your point is stupid" is just unnecessary.

not really. its a condensed expression of why what you are ssaying is irrelevant, adn was accompanied by an explanation. get over it.

[crazeegirl411]

well... this is about opinions... you're opinion is that it is fine, mine is that it isnt... kind of the point of this kind of discussion.

see, now you're frustrating me. animals do not feel degraded by the use of bitch. it is no ta possibility. gay PEOPLE can. therein lies that difference.

the use of something as an adjective, vs that of a greeting is not a significant differenc, because it is STILL the casual use of a word which may cause offense in everyday conversation. the fact that you've got this hangup about parts of speech is preventing useful progression of the conversation. if you can explain to me why the part of speech is significant, then do so, rather than just stating the obvious.


well the point WAS ridiculous. dont say something in a debate or whatever and then assume no one will call you on it.


not really. its a condensed expression of why what you are ssaying is irrelevant, adn was accompanied by an explanation. get over it.

I already stated that it is this "argument" is opinionated so opinions are necessary, although judgements like something is ridiculous or stupid is unnecessary. Why don't YOU get over people using the word gay if I have to get over you giving your little opinions in a debate? Your opinion is fine to me (how you feel about the use of the word, "gay" nowadays). I was trying to prove my opinion. Not attack your opinions.

Because you're getting upset over the use of gay. They're not calling people gay, they are describing something as gay. How can you parallel that with "Hey nigger," if they are not personally attacking gay people like that? If they don't mean to attack gay people by calling them names like that, but merely using it as a third meaning that you do not accept, it is a BIG difference.

[flc]

not really. its a condensed expression of why what you are ssaying is irrelevant, adn was accompanied by an explanation. get over it.

And you have the nerve to tell me that the things I say are ignorant? -_- Saying "Your point is stupid," even with an explanation in a debate is childish. Accept that you're not perfect and above us all.

Crazeegirl411, stop arguing with him. I agree with you, so you can be content with that. You're not going to change his mind, and he's not going to change ours.

[*mipadi*]

You're not going to change his mind, and he's not going to change ours.

Welcome to the world of academic discourse…

[Jorge]

Nobody's opinions will change unless you state very good reasons why they should stop saying things are gay. I could list 250 people who use the statement "that's so gay" in place of "that's so stupid". It doesn't matter. It's not referring to "homosexual" people. End of story.

[*Statues/Shadows*]

You're not going to change his mind, and he's not going to change ours.

That too is pretty ignorant. narrow minded much? How is the world supposed to progress at all if people won't even try to accept other points of view?

[*I Shot JFK*]

I already stated that it is this "argument" is opinionated so opinions are necessary, although judgements like something is ridiculous or stupid is unnecessary. Why don't YOU get over people using the word gay if I have to get over you giving your little opinions in a debate? Your opinion is fine to me (how you feel about the use of the word, "gay" nowadays). I was trying to prove my opinion. Not attack your opinions.

Because you're getting upset over the use of gay. They're not calling people gay, they are describing something as gay. How can you parallel that with "Hey nigger," if they are not personally attacking gay people like that? If they don't mean to attack gay people by calling them names like that, but merely using it as a third meaning that you do not accept, it is a BIG difference.

well you were doing it badly. life goes on, i suppose.

no. no no no no no. i THINK you've over-thought the point i was tring to make. casual use of nigger can offend african americans. casual use of gay can offend homosexuals. that is the parallel. it is THAT simple.

And you have the nerve to tell me that the things I say are ignorant? -_- Saying "Your point is stupid," even with an explanation in a debate is childish. Accept that you're not perfect and above us all.

well, childish or not it was true. and perfection isnt a requirement for seeing clear flaws...

Crazeegirl411, stop arguing with him. I agree with you, so you can be content with that. You're not going to change his mind, and he's not going to change ours.

how boring is that! sigh...

Nobody's opinions will change unless you state very good reasons why they should stop saying things are gay. I could list 250 people who use the statement "that's so gay" in place of "that's so stupid". It doesn't matter. It's not referring to "homosexual" people. End of story.

well tahnk you captain obvious...

surely, if people take offense, it DOES matter. and by having this conversation, you're aknowledging that it does matter.

[Jorge2]

Don't take my opinions too seriously now Captain Obvious.

[*Weird addiction*]

You like bananas? That is so gay. What the HELL is that? Why use the word "gay"? Why not use something else? Most of you are insensitive. How would you feel if I came up to you and said "hey chink"? I might be "used" to it but it's rude. Really, I can't understand, I don't want to understand, this is just crap. I'm not going to argue with anyone here... it's useless, you're all close-minded.

[Jorge2]

It's most commenly passed down. You hear what one says, you reapeat.

Why don't you be a role model and start it off by using a different word.

"That's so stupid."

Sounds about right?

[*I Shot JFK*]

It's most commenly passed down. You hear what one says, you reapeat.

Why don't you be a role model and start it off by using a different word.

"That's so stupid."

Sounds about right?

well part of being a rolemodel is explainin gwhy what you are doing is better than te alternative... and for the record, the captain obvious bit refered only to you saying 'no ones opinions will change unless you state very good reasons why they should stop saying things', not the rest of your post...

[*chaneun*]

well part of being a rolemodel is explainin gwhy what you are doing is better than te alternative... and for the record, the captain obvious bit refered only to you saying 'no ones opinions will change unless you state very good reasons why they should stop saying things', not the rest of your post...

wow you're gay.

[*Weird addiction*]

Haha. Funny.

[flc]

That too is pretty ignorant. narrow minded much? How is the world supposed to pregress at all if people won't even try to accept other points of view?

So people aren't allowed to agree to disagree? This "arguement" really was going nowhere, and crazeegirl411 seemed to be getting mad. Debate is about debating, not about getting angry.

Plus I was just getting bored with this topic. You guys know my sentiments on this, so that's it.

well, childish or not it was true. and perfection isnt a requirement for seeing clear flaws...

I never said you had to be perfect. I at least expected you yourself to show some maturity, since your main arguement in all of this was that "gay" is ignorant, and since you come off as the model Createblog member.

[*disco infiltrator*]

I edited your poll for you. I don't know why someone didn't earlier.