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A Sociolinguistic Study of English Swear Words Used By Bangladeshi Youth.
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DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.17850.00960
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‘A Sociolinguistic Study of English Swear Words
Used By Bangladeshi Youth.’
ENG 554: Advanced Sociolinguistics
Prepared By: Mithun Rozario # 1815005055
Prepared For: Prof. Dr. Suhail Islam
Department of English & Modern Languages
North South University, Dhaka
Acknowledgment
First and foremost, I would like to sincerely thank my faculty, Prof. Suhail Islam for his constant
support and detailed guidelines through the process of writing this thesis.
In spite of the unusual choice of the topic, his motivation made me believe in this research
theme, which has seen the light of day in such short span of time.
I owe gratitude to North South University Library for giving me online access to a number of
resourceful digital libraries through MyAthens account.
I would also like to thank a few people who have gone out of their comfort zones to help me in
my research work.
I convey my heartfelt gratitude to all my friends especially Deepthi, Neher, Tahin, and Liku for
their ongoing suggestions and feedback with good spirit and humor. I thank all the respondents
of my survey questionnaire for their valuable time and words of inspiration.
Lastly, I cannot ignore the silent motivation of my parents, especially of my mother for assisting
me with ideas and late night coffees. Thank You!
ii
Abstract
Slang words and phrases are unconventional linguistic expressions. Slang includes not just words
but words used in a particular social context. Using slang terms is regarded as a response to a
kind of need and is of an informal style. The use of slang varies from region to region. Mostly
slang words are considered to be taboo and are not to be used in the public sphere.
This paper investigates the research areas: definitions of English swear words, its history;
cultural and sociolinguistic context; psychological function in people; evolution, growth, and
attitudinal change towards slang language in a technologically advanced globalized world. The
two major hypotheses that sprang from my research areas are: globalization of communication
technology and influx of western media influences the Bangladeshi youngsters (18-25 years) to
use more English swearwords than the vernacular ones and Bangladeshi youngsters are more
open to adopting the English swears in their daily speech than their elders. Thus the aim of this
research paper is to study, analyze, and understand the prevalence of English swear words among
the urban younger population of Dhaka.
The research paper makes use of both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods to
gather and analyze data to test the hypotheses. The analysis of both primary and secondary data
validates the hypotheses proposed in the paper. The primary data is collected through a survey
questionnaire. The secondary data is acquired from previous research works and books on the
topic.
iii
Table of Contents
Acknowledgment ……………………………………………………………………………….ii
Abstract………………………………………………………………………………………....iii
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………….iv
1. Introduction……………………………………………………………………………6
2. Research areas…………………………………………………………………………7
2.1.English swear words………………………………………………………………..7
2.2.Psychology of swearing…………………………………………………………….8
2.3.Swearwords in a cultural context…………………………………………………..8
2.4. Media………………………………………………………………………………9
2.5.Globalization and Effects of media on the language of youth……………………..10
3. Hypothesis……………………………………………………………………………..12
4. Methodology…………………………………………………………………………..12
4.1.Primary data collection……………………………………………………………..12
4.2.Secondary data collection…………………………………………………………..13
5. Primary data presentation……………………………………………………………13
5.1.Tabulation of data………………………………………………………………….13
5.2.Graphical representation and analysis of the primary data…………………14-30
5.2.1. How often do the youth use slang in text messages, conversations, on the web,
etc.?
5.2.2. What sort of swearwords does the Bangladeshi youth frequently use?
5.2.3. Why do the youth use swearwords?
5.2.4. Which of the following English swearwords do youth use more?
5.2.5. Where do the youth learn or mostly come across English swearwords?
5.2.6. How often do you find people around you using English swearwords?
5.2.7. Do the youth understand the meanings of the swear words they use?
5.2.8. The level of severity of the certain English curse words
5.2.9. Do the youth think the severity of the ‘F words’ in insulting people have reduced
over the years?
5.10. What’s your thought about people who use English curse words?
5.11. Do the elders appreciate youth speaking the vulgar language or curse words?
iv
5.12. Do you feel comfortable using swearwords in front of your elders?
5.13. Why do you think some people do not use curse words?
5.14. What’s the opinion of the youth on using English swearwords in the context of
Bangladesh?
5.15. Do the respondents want to stop the practice of using English swearwords?
6. Secondary data analysis…………………………………………………………………….30
7. Research findings…………………………………………………………………………....31
8. Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………32
9. Limitations…………………………………………………………………………………….34
10. Suggestions for future research………………………………………………………………35
11. Reference list………………………………………………………………………………...36
12. Appendix : Survey Questionnaire for Primary Data…………………………………………37
v
1. Introduction
Language is one of the significant attributes that sets us, humans, apart
from other animals. Languages a medium of communication possesses the power to build or to
destroy, to unite or to scatter, to hurt or to heal. It is while describing the power of language that
great French philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche said, "All I need is a sheet of paper and something
to write with, and then I can turn the world upside down." (Economy, 2015)
Words in a language are magical, in a sense we can assign a multitude of
meanings on these mere combinations of letters. Moreover, a single word might have shades of
meanings. Hence every language has different word registers such as formal, informal,
colloquial, slang, taboo, etc. to suit the purpose of various social settings.
Swearwords or cuss words are an integral part of every linguistic tradition.
These words and expressions are regarded as inappropriate, vulgar, taboo, or offensive to be used
on public occasions. However, we do use them to some extent in our everyday speech to express
versatile emotions such as anger, surprise, fear, hatred, joy, etc.
Swearwords are culture and language specific. However, thanks to
globalization and the rapid growth of electronic media; cultures and expressions of distant shores
have paved their ways into our bedrooms. We are especially exposed to and are saturated with
western culture, and English language. My chief motivation for researching swears is to
understand the use of English slang language in the sociolinguistic context of Bangladesh,
especially in the metropolitan Dhaka. There is a growing trend in using English slangs among the
youngsters hailing mainly from the affluent class of the city.
6
The scope of my research primarily pervades the psychological analysis of
using swearwords and tracing the historical moments that contributed to the spread and evolution
of English swearwords. Secondly, I have analyzed the socio-cultural triggers that influence
attitudinal change in the youth to adopt such words in their everyday speech.
In the past, there hasn’t been any systematic and comprehensive study on
this critical socio-linguistic phenomenon in this part of the world. I believe this research paper
will be a valuable document to understand the youth language, colloquial speech pattern, and
culturally conditioned vocabulary prevalent among the non-native speakers of English language.
2. Research Areas
2.1.English swearwords
Definition of swearwords according to Oxford English Dictionary is, “an
offensive word, used especially as an expression of anger.” However, swearwords express a
multitude of other human emotions as well such as joy, surprise, fear, hatred, excitement, etc.
Collins English dictionary defines cuss words as “a socially taboo word or phrase of a profane,
obscene or insulting character.”
Research conducted by Timothy Jay gathers 15 most popular swearwords
in America. These are: God, Shit, Fuck, Hell, Goddamn, Ass, Asshole, Piss, Jesus, Idiot, Bitch,
Jerk, Suck, Heavens, Damn. Each of these swears has different forms. Fuck has various forms
such as fucker, fucking, fucked, etc. In this paper, all the forms are counted under the ordinary
infinitive form fuck. The same is true for shit, ass, piss, etc.
7
2.2.Psychology of swearing
At the very outset it is important to understand the psychological or
neurological function and motif of using swears. Jay (1999) is of the opinion that conventional
speech or language has dual extremes: propositional and non-propositional speech. Propositional
speech is our controlled and well thought out speech that is “novel and creative”. The second
extreme namely non-propositional speech is “automatic, reflexive, and non-creative” (Jay, 1999,
p.33). A good example of non-propositional speech is when some hurts his finger and
instinctively shouts out fuck!
We can see people expressing their rawest emotions and feelings while cursing. Moreover, using
slang language during a strong emotional state is deemed natural than speaking them when
everything is normal. Swearwords are used to express a multitude of feelings such as anger,
frustration, regret, joy, pleasure, shock, etc. Swears can also show power, control, dominance,
etc. (e.g. I’m gonna fuck you so hard, Get the fuck out of here.)
2.3. Swearwords in a cultural context
There are cultural differences in cuss words. Every culture has their
selection of swearwords specific to them, based on what is taboo or sacred in that culture (de
Klerk, 1992, p.277). Linguists are of the opinion that when a particular word can generate
inappropriateness and offensiveness in a social or cultural context, it is considered a cuss word.
Hence, the speaker, listener, and the social context of the word are necessary for evaluating the
severity of a cuss word (Jay, 1999, pp.147-149).
8
Another important observation regarding swearwords comes from LarsGunnar Andersson and Peter Trudgill. They suggest that swearwords never express their
denotative meanings. Instead, cuss words express the raw emotions or feelings powerfully with
connotative meanings (Andersson, Trudgill 1990, p.53). When someone curses a person saying,
“You are a piece of shit”; it is not to be expected that the other person is a piece of feces. The
person swearing is expressing his anger or frustration at the other person connoting him or his
actions to be as lowly as shit.
Swearwords are categorized into different variables according to their
functions and motif. English cuss words can be broadly classified into such categories as;
religious, scatological, genital, intercourse, sodomy, dirt, ethnic groups, insults, slurs, mother,
etc. (Ljung, 2006, p.62). Sometimes a swear word or phrase belongs to more than one category
such as ‘fucking (intercourse) bullshit (dirt).’
When we consider these swearwords in a cultural context, these may be
regarded as socially taboo, blasphemy, profane, obscene, vulgar, slur, insult, etc. However, the
action or meanings of these words themselves do not denote these to be forbidden. The actions
that these swearwords denote somewhat restricted and controlled by the rules of that society. For
example, the actions of fuck and shit are not forbidden; it is when, where, with whom someone
does it that makes them inappropriate. In the same way, hell is not a forbidden word. Whereas
'go to hell' suggest someone is cursing a person all the suffering in the afterlife (Andersson,
Trudgill, 1990, pp.55-56).
9
2.4.Media
Print and electronic media have a profound impact on the life of the
people. Media influences our speech pattern, lifestyle habits, attitude, and perception of the
reality. It is during 1970’s that British newspapers dared to use traditional profane language.
According to Hughes, The Daily Mirror in 1974 published the word Bloody on their front page in
capital letters. Other swears that frequently came in the English newspapers of the time were
murdering bastards, get stuffed, and so on. Hollywood movies, radio stations, and television
channels changed the scenario during this time (Hughes, 2010, p.189). In addition to radios, 90
percent of all households in America had at least one television set by 1960 (Faragher, 2009,
p.774).
Before the war, movies were under strict regulations regarding use of
vulgar language, lustful, provocative and violent scenes. However, in 1939 the movie ‘Gone with
the wind’ broke the traditional norms and used the famous one-liner, ‘Frankly, my dear, I do not
give a damn.’ In the latter part of the century, the
12expansion of television threatened the survival
of cinema. This phenomenon played a part in making the filmmakers verbally liberal. They made
films with daring dialogues that include slangs for being realistic to the audience. The 1966
movie, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Is a good example of this endeavor on the part of the
movie makers. The age restriction was introduced to movies, and the movie producers could use
realistic language for the adults unlike before (Hughes, 2010, p.199). The popular 2002 English
TV series ‘The Wire’ constitutes a scene of several minutes where the dialogue between two
characters consists of only the word fuck (David, 2002).
2.5.Globalization and Effects of media on the language of youth
10
The English language has become a globalized language all over the world.
The increase of globalization has many effects on language. It changes the mentality of the
human being. The English language dominates the world as no language ever has done.
Globalization has both positive and negative effects on the youth of this
generation. In the present time cultural elements are shaped into entertainment products,
services and commodities. In 1991 the introduction of sattelite TV channels or multi-channel TV
happened in Bangladesh. The broadcasting media thus exposed the viewers able to various
foreign cultural norms, practices, and customs. Every cultural element is integral part of social
way of life. But with the influx of media and technology the western cultural elements, now
turned into commercial entertainment products have made their way into Bengali social life.
With the advent of technology, several changes took place in all the fields
of work and education. Technology plays a significant role in the line of education with the
increase of globalization. The Mass Media and New Media are most essential tools in the process
of proliferating global culture to young people around the world and can also be used as a
platform for the networking of resistance. Social media has a large influence on language in
listening and grasping words change in words, emerging new words and even in creating
acronyms to the words. We see so much of the written language on the screens of computers,
tablets and smartphones and language evolves partly through interaction with technology.
Young learners are fast and spend most of their time in using and
communicating through social networking sites such Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, Instagram
and other social media channels which offers instant interaction with wide audiences; it has
never been this easier to help a word gain traction from your armchair (Reed, 2014). The words
that we hear around us every day influence the words we use. The language that we grasp and
11
use can be positive and negative. Thus, media has a remarkable influence on the language and
change in the attitude of the young generation.
3. Hypothesis
Two essential hypotheses are springing from my research questions:
1. Globalization of communication technology and influx of western media influences the
Bangladeshi youngsters (18-25 years) to use more English swearwords than the
vernacular ones.
2. Bangladeshi youngsters are more open to adopting the English swears in their daily
speech than their elders.
4. Methodology
I have resorted to both the quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods to
test my hypotheses mentioned above.
4.1.Primary data collection: For my primary data I have surveyed 30 young man and women
between 18-25 years of age. The questionnaire contained 15 multiple choice questions. The
answer options were carefully thought out and pre-generated after much observation and
reading. The questions were patterned carefully so that these could provide me with the
maximum amount of data without asking open-ended long answers. The survey
questionnaire provided me with quantitative numerical data that I have rated statistically in
the analysis section. The respondents were all studying in under graduation and graduation
level at top three private universities of Bangladesh. I observed that this class of younger
generation were appropriate for my research work since they had a better exposure to
12
western media and were equipped with all the communications tools that globalization has
provided with. I have emailed the questionnaire to the respondents for gathering the data.
4.2 Secondary data collection: for the second-hand data, I have resorted to some previous
research journals and books concentrating on my topic and research areas. I have accessed
many of these publications online. Due to time constraints, I did not have much freedom to
spend much time in libraries to gather secondary data. However, I could access and read my
pre-planned bibliographies for the research work through NSU library resources online,
online journals in various websites, and in digital libraries (JSTOR, EMERALD) through
MyAthens. Fortunately, I already had the hard copies of a couple of books used for the
research.
The secondary data thus collected from various sources provided me with textual or theoretical
authenticity. In the light of my secondary data, I have analyzed and interpreted the primary data
and my hypothesis. I have collated and collectively analyzed all the data to conclude.
5. Primary data presentation
The simple survey questionnaire helped me probe into the psychology and attitude of the
Bangladeshi youth in using English swears.
5.1 Tabulation of data
I have tabulated the answers of the respondents for an easy and efficient analysis of the data
collected. Question nos. 3, 4, 5 and 7 did not come in the table because the respondents could
choose more than one options for answering these questions. They were analyzed separately
gather verifiable data.
13
Figure1: Tabulation of the primary data
5.2. Graphical representation and analysis of the primary data
Below I have listed all the survey questions and have presented the primary data in the form of
graphs. I have also analyzed the data to compare the results with my earlier hypothesis.
5.2.1. How often do the youth use slang in text messages, conversations, on the web, etc.?
Figure2: Frequency of using slangs among
youth
1-20 times a day 33%
20-50 times a day 17%
always 13%
never 0%
Rarely 37%
14
The graph shows the frequency of using slang language both Bengali and
English generally among Bangladeshi youth.
What is fascinating is that none of the respondents deny the fact of
swearing. Hence the option never has 0% response. The second majority 33% agree to be using
slangs 1-20 times on a daily basis. 37% respondents say that they use swearwords rarely and
13% states the frequency of their using such types of words always.
The data gives a clear picture that slang language is an integral part of
sociolinguistics. More or less every one of the youth group uses some swearwords in their daily
speech.
5.2.2. What sort of swearwords does the Bangladeshi youth frequently use?
Figure 3: Type of slangs Bangladeshi youth
prefer
20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
only Bengali slangs 0% only English slangs 19%
15
more Bengali than
English 54%
more English than
Bengali 27%
The graph shows the type of slangs that Bangladeshi youth prefer in their
daily communication.
The urban youth group among whom I conducted the survey prefers a
mixer of both Bengali and English swear words in the daily speech. None of the respondents
entirely use only Bengali slangs. 19% of the students responded that they use only English
slangs. This group of students come from a very sophisticated English speaking background and
has a higher exposure to western media. Altogether 81% of the respondents agree to use a
mixture of both Bengali and English slang. Here 54% claim to use more Bengali than English
slangs and other 27% prefers more English than Bengali swearwords.
The data is a clear indication that the urban youth in Bangladesh has
excellent exposure to globalized media and western cultural phenomena. Thus, a considerable
number of youth have embraced English slangs in their every speech.
5.2.3. Why do the youth use swearwords?
Figure 4: The reasons of using curse language
anger, frustation, regret 56%
joy, success 29%
to take control 9%
trend & fashion 6%
16
This survey question probed the psychological aspects of using
swearwords among the youngsters.
The responses vividly indicate that 56% of the youngsters use swear
language to express their feelings of anger, frustration, regret and failure in life. The second
majority of the respondents use slangs as linguistic expressions that heighten their feelings of
success, joy, and pleasure. 9% of the students think that slang language is a potent tool to take
control of a situation and these words help to create a domineering atmosphere at any given time.
Using English cuss words such as fuck, asshole, bitch, bullshit, etc. have also became a part of
social trend or fashion. 9% of the youth has the psychological make-up that frequent usage of
such foreign vulgar words has a trendy and modern impression of their personality among friend
circle.
The analysis of the data derived from the above question enlightens us to
what psychological aspects are responsible for using swears in the first place. Moreover, the data
supports the hypothesis in a number of ways: youth are very open to English swears in
expressing their feelings verbally, they consider these words to be trendy and fashionable as do
the globalized media portray them to be.
17
5.2.4. Which of the following English swearwords do youth use more?
Figure 5: Famous English Swear Words
Fuck
Shit
Bastard
Bitch
Ass hole
Motherfucker
other
2% 4%
2%
11%
35%
46%
This survey question tries to find out which English swears are more
popular among the Bangladeshi youth.
English swearwords such as fuck and shit are the two most used slangs
among Bangladeshi youth. Shit is the most common swear word among the youth with 46%
responses for the cuss word. Shit is considered a rather mild and harmless word and the youth
were not even aware that the word is an official cuss or slang word. The second most preferred
English slang is the word fuck. 35% of the respondents use the cuss word fuck on a regular basis.
They use various forms of the infinitive fuck; such as fuck you, fuck off, fucking crazy, fucker,
motherfucker, etc. the cuss words bitch, motherfucker, bastard, and other (cocksucker, asshole,
stupid) are respectively used by 11, 4, 2, and 2% of the respondents.
Bangladeshis learn English as a second language. They are always coming
across different expressions or linguistic nuances of this foreign tongue through media, social
18
networking platforms, books, movies, and in conversations with native speakers. Taboo language
naturally generates significant interest among L2 speakers.
5.2.5. Where do the youth learn or mostly come across English swearwords?
Figure 6: A chart showing, the sources from or the
places where the youngsters learn English swear words.
Hollywood movies, music, T.V.
series 27%
Internet, social media 27%
From friends 39%
At home 7%
This question aims to find sources from which young generation of present
time learns English swearwords. The respondents could choose more than one answer options for
this question.
Hollywood movies, American TV series, and western music are much
loved by the youth all over the world for entertainment purposes. Bangladeshi youth are no
exception. Globalization has paved the way for this western entertainment into our homes. These
entertainment elements are most often filled with English slang. 27% of the respondent agrees
that they learn slang words from Hollywood movies, drama series (Netflix), and music. Social
media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram are as influential factors (27%) as the
previous ones in spreading English slangs among the youth. The majority of the students 39%
are of the opinion that they learn slangs in the company of their friends. However, it is clear that
19
the primary source of their learning these words are western entertainment elements and modern
social communication media.
The data elicited from the question sheds significant light on the impact of
globalization and media in changing the linguistic pattern of the Bangladeshi youth.
5.2.6. How often do you find people around you using English swearwords?
This survey question aims at finding out the frequency of English slangs
among the people around.
There were four answer options to the question: very often, often, rarely,
and never. The respondents chose the first two options only. 57% of the respondents find the
people they come across in daily life uses English swears very often. The rest of the 43%
experience the similar linguistic phenomena often. It is an obvious observation that these
youngsters are mostly in the company of their peers every day.
Such an observation backed by the analysis of the data points to the fact
that English slangs are commonly occurring in their speech habit. These young people use slangs
very often and often when communicating with their friends. None of the respondents said they
rarely or never found anyone swearing in English.
20
5.2.7. Do the youth understand the meanings of the swear words they use?
Figure 7: Understanding the meanings of the
slang words
Yes, I do
30%
Other
20%
No, I don't
50%
I don’t't care about
meanings
20%
Any other
0%
The figure shows whether the Bangladeshi youth understand the literal
meaning of English swears or do they given care for understanding the meanings.
The graph indicates that 50% of the respondents feel that the slangs are
linguistic tools of expressing their raw emotions and feelings in life. This group of people does
not bother to understand the meanings of these vulgar terms while communicating. The second
majority of 30% say that they know the meanings of these words and intentionally use these to
hurt people. It is clear from the response that they mean or wish something hurtful to the other
part while hurling these demeaning cuss words at them. The rest of the 20% neither know the
meaning nor care to learn them. This group of respondent uses these slangs as trendy and
fashionable verbal expressions. These respondents do not mean to hurt anyone using slang
language at them.
21
The data is valuable in understanding the sociolinguistic function of
English swearwords among Bangladeshi urban youth. Majority of the youth prefers to use the
taboo language as trendy expressions that help them express feelings better. They do not care
much about the denotative meanings of these words.
5.2.8. Please circle
the level of severity of the following curse words
Figure 8: Severity of certain slangs
25
20
15
10
5
0
Fuck
Shit
Cunt
Bastard
Asshole
Stupid
O! my
God
Jerk
Pussy
very severe
8
4
11
14
11
3
1
7
10
fairly severe
12
7
8
5
10
5
2
9
8
mild
9
9
5
8
4
11
6
9
6
not swearing
1
10
6
3
5
11
21
5
6
The graph statistically represents the severity of certain favorite slangs
used by Bangladeshi youth.
The respondents feel that the term bastard is very severe (11%) in hurting
people. In my observation, it is due to the strong taboo sentiment against ‘illegitimate child’ in
our society. Cunt, asshole, and pussy are other severe slangs as they refer to human genitals in a
derogatory manner. The famous word fuck (8%) is less severe compared to the previous slangs.
Shit and stupid are both considered not swearing at all by 10% and 11%
respondents respectively. My observation suggests that shit has become an integral part of our
22
daily speech and we are using it without realizing its denotative meaning. Another important
moral teaching that we learn in childhood is to not take God’s name in vain. However, Oh! My
God is not considered slang by majority f the respondents. They were rather surprised to know
that this term is considered slang.
The data analyzed from this survey question reveals the attitude towards
certain swearwords. Fuck, shit, religious slangs are getting wider acceptance among the younger
generation.
5.2.9. Do you think the severity of the ‘F words’ in insulting people have reduced over the
years?
This survey question specifically gathers data on the usage of one of the
most common English slangs fuck. The collected data may shed some light on the semantic
evolution of this slang word. The question primarily asks the youngsters whether they think the
severity of fuck or fuck words has reduced over time.
A majority of 63% think that ‘F or fuck words’ have lost the severity of
their meanings in the past few years. They agree to the reason of being so is the extensive use of
the words to express a multitude of meanings in daily life. The frequency of these words has
made them common occurrence in the speech habit. As a result, they lost the strong denotative
meanings. The rest of the 37% respondents feel that fuck words are still very much severe when
it comes to insulting people. These groups of respondents do accept the fact that fuck is
commonly used by youngsters but they do not deny the functional severity of these words.
The analysis of data gathered from this question reaffirms the widespread
use of English slang such as fuck. The data also suggest the evolution of attitude and semantic
transformations of these words for extensive use.
23
5.2.10. What’s your thought about people who use English curse words?
Figure 9: Percepton of people who use
English curse words
normal, nothing
cool, trendy, and
strange or
over exposed to
interesting
media
9%
23%
don’t have good
moral formation at
home
30%
fake and just
showing off
38%
The graph shows the perception of the youth of the people who use slangs
often in their daily communication.
The data indicate that majority of the respondents 38% think English
slangs are verbal expressions to show off power and social class affluence. The responses have
similarity with an earlier inquiry into the reasons of swearing. The respondents feel that the aim
of using such foul language is not genuine hatred or to insult someone. Instead, the use of such
language gives the speakers some power to take control of a situation. Another quite fascinating
revelation is that 30%of the youth feel the slang speakers do not have a right moral education at
home to control their foul tongue. The third majority of the respondents that comprises of 23%
said that the slang speakers give an impression of being trendy, cool or fashionable at present.
When a young Bengali man uses various English slangs in his communication, it shows that he is
overexposed to the modern means of communication or western culture. The final 9% of the
24
survey respondents think that nothing is exciting or strange about using such taboo language. It is
an entirely natural linguistic phenomenon.
The analysis of the data points to the fact that English slangs are more
considered tools for showing power, trendiness, social class, and affluence.
5.2.11. Do the elders appreciate youth speaking the vulgar language or curse words?
Figure 10: Do the elders appreciate of youth
using English cuss words?
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
0% 0%
11%
89%
The survey question aims at exploring the perception of the elders
(parents, teachers, religious clergy, etc.) towards youth using English slangs in their speech. The
graph represents very clearly that 89% of the respondents think that their elders would disagree
of their speaking English slangs. Other 11% feel the elders would strongly disagree with such
foul language. It is also evident from the responses that none of the youngsters think that their
elders would appreciate or mildly agree to their use of foul language in communication.
25
The data derived from this survey question is relevant because it draws a
vivid distinction between the elders and youngsters about perception and acceptance of English
slang. The elders in Bangladeshi society did not embrace the English slangs as did the younger
generation.
5.2.12. Do you feel comfortable using swearwords in front of your elders? (Parents,
teachers, and others)
This survey question tries to understand the level of freedom or restriction
that young people experience in using English slangs in front of their parents, elders, and people
other than friends.
A huge majority of 87% respondents say that they do not use curse words
in front of the elders at all. The rest of the13% says that they use milder forms or less severe
slangs in the presence of their parents and elders. None of the respondents agree that they use
slangs while communicating with elders without any inhibition.
The analysis of this primary data suggests that youngsters are not
comfortable with using slangs in front of their elders. The reason for this inhibition is due to the
traditional-minded elders not accepting or encouraging such foul foreign words.
The data shows the contrastive mindset or attitude of two classes of people regarding English
slangs.
26
5.2.13. Why do you think some people do not use curse words?
Figure 11: What restricts someone from using
swears?
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
28
Moral formation at
home
Religious belief
Personal value system Curse words spoil public
image
The graph represents the social and personal inhibitory factors that block or
discourage the use of slang language.
This question probes into the moral and social restrictions that try to
dissuade the prevalence of English slangs in communication. Personal value system ranks first
with 53% responses favoring the answer option. Young people think that personal value system,
self-image (prestige) play a significant part in censoring one’s speech in public. Preservation of
excellent and elegant self-image in front of others is a significant stimulus in avoiding slangs.
The second highest response (33%) for this question is in favor of moral formation at home.
Childhood upbringing at home, moral formation, etiquette, manners and a loving bond with
parents have significant effects on the linguistic formation of youngsters. The respondents feel
these have significant roles to play in discouraging young people from swearing. Religious belief
or teaching is another censoring agent of slang language. 10% of the youngsters believe that
religious norms, teachings, and belief system dissuade them from using swears. Only 4% of the
27
respondents feel that using many slangs ruin their public image and personality. Hence they
avoid using these words to safeguard their image.
5.2.14. What’s the opinion of the youth on using English swearwords in the context of
Bangladesh?
Figure 12: English swears and Bengali culture
17%
English swears are a global trend that
we can’t avoid
23%
These swear words are not harming
our culture
10%
We use both Bengali and English
swears according to our taste,
exposure, and situation
We should not use these swear
words
50%
The graph represents how the young people perceive the prevalence of
English swears in Bangladesh. Do they find these western cultural elements as a threat to our
culture or a natural addition to globalized phenomenon?
As we can see in the figure, 50% of the respondents are in a neutral
ground regarding the use or impact of English swears in Bengali cultural context. They use both
English and Bengali slangs without any fear of causing damage to native culture or tradition.
28
Language to them is a means of expressing feelings, and emotions. They choose linguistic
expressions according to their taste and exposure that better communicate their feelings. 23%
respondents feel that English swears are an unavoidable part of communication in the modern
world. These words have global outreach and are trending everywhere. 10% of the young people
find these words harmless to our cultural sentiment and tradition. The rest of the 17%
respondents feel that the influx and prevalence of these words in Bangladesh do have some
effects in our cultural scene. They are of the opinion that we should reduce or stop using such
words.
5.2.15. Do the respondents want to stop the practice of using English swearwords?
Figure 13: Youth on giving up slangs
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
Yes it affects my
personality, and
against my cultural
ethics
No, it’s natural to
adopt foreign
cultural elements
Not completely,
slangs help express
some feelings well
Not sure
The graph represents the willingness and unwillingness of the respondents
in giving up slang language.
This question is an extension of the previous one to understand the value
of slangs in youngsters’ daily speech habit. 46% of the respondents are of the opinion that slangs
29
affect their personality and inherent cultural value. Hence this large number thinks of stop using
these foul languages. Surprisingly another big group of respondents with 33% majority think of
not wholly to do away with English swear. This group sees the beneficial aspects of these words
in expressing their feelings better. 6% of the students say a complete no to the prevention of
such slangs in Bangladeshi context. According to them foreign cultural elements are bound to
make a way to the native culture, and there’s always a scope of adaptability. The final 13% of the
respondents are not sure whether they can avoid using slangs in daily life.
The analysis of the data indicates the youngster’s need for English swears
to communicate feelings and emotions better. There are an equal number of people for and
against the usage of English swearwords in Bangladesh.
6.
Secondary data analysis
There is a huge change in the attitude of using swear words in public
occasions. 50 years back swearing in public was not as liberal as in now. There are various
approaches as to how the attitudes change.
Thurston (1931) defined attitude as “effect for or against a psychological
object.” According to his view attitude is embroiled in affection in that can either have a positive
view, being for something or negative, being against (Thurston, 1931, p. 249). For Allport
(1954), attitude is “a learned disposition to think, feel and behave toward a person in a particular
way” (Allport, 1935, pp. 798-844).
Ronald Robertson referred globalization to Westernization or
modernization for the process of getting adapted to western culture by considering it as modern
and more civilized in the underdeveloped countries. Lastly, he explained globalization as de-
30
territorialization which talks about sharing of incidents and events happening in one region to
other regions and all over the world through modern means of telecommunications.
One of the most effective variables that contribute to an attitude change is a channel.
It is represented by TV, radio, internet, and newspapers. Messages that are channelized through
face-to-face conversations could prove to be more persuasive. The use of slang language is
mostly growing in young generations. In these days people consider slang words as the part of
their speech, though informal. Youth show likeliness to use slang language and particularly with
a selective group of people. Teenagers believe that using slang in their statement is modern and
they do not hesitate to use. For young generation using slang is not considered much as taboo as
it is used in their everyday speech.
7.
Research findings
In this section I have discussed about my findings from the primary and
secondary data collection.
The survey questionnaire provides with valuable quantitative or statistical
data on the motif, source, function, and popularity of English swearwords in urban Bangladesh.
The data shed lights on the attitude, psychological need, and outlook of the younger generation
as well as the perception of the elders towards the spread and use of English slang in Bangladesh.
The analysis of the primary data points to the fact that the use of English slang is a growing trend
among the urban youth of Bangladesh. Majority of the youth find no threat from these western
linguistic elements to the native cultural heritage. On the contrary, the analysis of the primary
data suggests that the elder generation of the country functions as moral or censoring agent to
discourage the spread of English slang among Bangladeshi youth.
31
The secondary data gives me valuable qualitative data on English swear
words. The resourceful books and journals used for this paper enlightens with the information on
the core concepts, history, evolution, psychological function of English swear words. The
theoretical data provide with a comprehensive and authoritative analysis of the impact of
globalization, internet, and satellite technology in making English slang words a global linguistic
phenomenon. Lastly the secondary data suggest a change of attitude among the youth towards
the semantic function and severity of English swear words.
8.
Conclusion
In this section of the research paper, I will be testing my hypotheses in the
light of my primary and secondary data analysis and results. My first hypothesis is: globalization
of communication technology and influx of western media influences the Bangladeshi
youngsters (18-25 years) to use more English swearwords than the vernacular ones.
From my primary data analysis (in figure 5), it is evident that the young
generation has a significant exposure to Hollywood films, western music, internet, social media,
etc. The respondents agree to the fact that these entertainment and communication platforms are
the sources where they come across and learn English slang. 27% of the young people agree to
the effects of Hollywood films, and music on their vulgar speech pattern. The rapid growths of
internet communication through social media platforms are also responsible for influencing the
slang language acquisition by the Bangladeshi youth. My secondary data analysis also supports
the primary data in this regard. The advent of satellite channels and online communication have
exposed the Bangladeshi youth to globalized media and entertainment. Young generation is fast
and spends most of their time in using and communicating through social networking sites such
Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, Instagram and other social media channels which offer instant
32
interaction with wide audiences. The media, and entertainment industries in a globalized world is
largely portraying western cultural and linguistic norms.
After a careful analysis of both primary and secondary data, it is safe to
claim that the data supports the first hypothesis. The effects of globalization and modern means
of communication have significant effects in making the Bangladeshi young people use more
English slang.
The second hypothesis of the research paper is: Bangladeshi youngsters
are more open to adopting the English swears in their daily speech than their elders.
An analysis of the primary data shows that 19% of the Bangladeshi youth
prefers using only English slang. 27% of the young people adopts more English than Bengali
swear words on a daily basis. The data cast a clear contrast with the perception of the elder
generation towards English slang. 89% of the youth finds their parents and elders as strong
censoring agent against free use of English slang (figure 10). Moreover the primary data suggest
an attitudinal change towards the severity of certain English cuss words, traditionally used to be
regarded as very offensive (figure 8, 13). In the present time these taboo words have become
trendy and fashionable expressions among the youth and 50% of them find it quite normal so far
they help express feelings and emotions better (figure 12). However, 87% of the youth find
themselves uncomfortable to be using English slang in front of parents. The data again proves
the high moral standpoint and restricting factors that elder generation impose on the usage of
these words and phrases.
The secondary data walks the same line of thought as the primary data. It
explains the unprecedented effects of globalization, modern means of communications, media,
33
etc. in the psyches and attitudinal change of the youth all over the world. The western cultural
elements have the hegemony in globalized media and trending among the young generation.
These factors have great impact on the speech habit of the people, especially in the matters of
taboo language.
Both primary and secondary data suggest an attitudinal change among the
youth towards the severity and use of English slang in every day speech. The younger generation
of Bangladesh is more open to adopt such taboo language than the elders. It is good to say that
the second hypothesis stands valid in the light of my primary and secondary data.
9.
Limitations
I have faced a number of difficulties during the process of my research
work. These are listed below:
•
Time constraint: there was a specific time frame within which I had to complete this
research paper. The time limit was not sufficient to give enough attention to details and
broader analysis of the topic.
•
Funding: the research work met with financial difficulties at various stages. However,
there wasn’t any institutional funding to meet the expanses of the research paper. A
handsome funding may inspire research on such sociolinguistics topics in future.
•
Unavailability of secondary data: there haven’t been any researches done on this
sociolinguistic topic in Bangladesh before. Lack on research works on this topic created a
dearth of second hand information to back my primary data.
34
10.
Suggestions for future research
This research paper tried to study the sociolinguistic factors of using
English swear words by the youth in the context of Bangladesh. During the process of this paper,
I have come across several new concepts that can be researched on in future. The responses to
the primary data survey questionnaire made rooms for further research on some interesting
topics:
•
A gender based study of swear words in urban Dhaka.
•
The evolution and growing semantic flexibility of the word: Fuck
•
Can swearing empower women?
•
The rise of internet slang language.
Further research on the areas listed above may open up new doors of knowledge.
35
11.
Reference list
Allport, G. W. (1935). Attitudes. In A Handbook of Social Psychology (pp. 798-844). Worcester,
MA, US: Clark University Press.
ANDERSSON, L. G., TRUDGILL, P. 1990. Bad Language. England: Penguin Books.
De Klerk, V. (1992). How Taboo Are Taboo Words for Girls? Language in Society, 21(2), 277289. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/4168346
Economy, P. (2018, April 16). 26 Brilliant Quotes On The Super Power Of Words [Blog post].
Retrieved from https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/26-brilliant-quotes-on-the-super-power-ofword
Faragher, J. M., Mari, J. B., Daniel, C. & Susan, H. A. (2009). Out of Many A History of the
American People. United States of America: Pearson Education.
Hewstone, M., Manstead, T., & Stroebe, W. (Eds.). (1997). The Blackwell social psychology
reader. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.
Hughes, G. (1998). Swearing a Social History of Foul Language, Oaths and Profanity in
English. England: Penguin books.
Hughes, G. (2010). Political Correctness. Singapore: Blackwell.
Jay, T. (1999). Why We Curse A Neuro-Psycho-Social Theory of Speech. USA & The
Netherlands: John Benjamins Publishing Company.
Larkin, P., & Thwaite, A. (1993). Collected poems: Larkin. New York: Noonday Press.
Ljung, M. (2011). Swearing: a cross-cultural linguistic study. New York: Macmillan
36
Pinker, S. (2007). Stuff of Thought. London, England: Penguin books.
Pinker, S. (2007, October). What the F***? Why we curse. The New Republic. Retrieved from
https://pinker.wjh.harvard.edu/books/stuff/media_articles/TNR%20Online%20%20Wh
at%20the%20F%20(1%20of%203)%20(print),html.
Razak, M. A. A. (2011, March), Globalization and its impact on Education and culture [PDF
file]. World Journal of Islamic History and Civilization, 1: 59-61. Retrieved from
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/6755/164a1d162cda9ec2b0005f7dc6.pdf
Reed, J. (2014). How social media is changing language. Retrieved from
https://blog.oxforddictionaries.com/amp/2014/06/18
Thurstone, L. L. (1931). The measurement of social attitudes. The Journal of Abnormal and
Social Psychology, 26(3), 249-269.
37
APPENDIX
Survey Questionnaire for Primary Data
Dear respondent,
My name is Mithun Rozario, a graduate student (M.A. English Language & Linguistics; ID#
1815005055) at the North South University, Dhaka. I am doing a research on ‘A Sociolinguistic
Study of Swear Words.’ The data from this survey will only be used for scholarly purposes and
your identity will not be disclosed.
Research Title: A Sociolinguistic Study of Swear Words.
Target Group: Students in Higher Secondary, Undergraduate and Graduate levels
Sex: M
F
Others
Age:
Instruction: Please put a tick mark





on the answer of your choice.
1. How often do you use slang in text messages, conversations, on the web, etc?
1-20 times a day
20-50 times a day
Always
Never
Rarely
2. What sort of swear words do you normally use on a regular basis?




Only Bengali slangs
Only English slangs
More Bengalithan English slangs
More English than Bengali slangs





3. Why do you use swear words?
To express anger, frustration, regret, etc.
To express happiness, joy, success, etc.
Curse wordsgive power to take control of a situation
To keep up with the trend and fashion and get recognition among friends
Any other please mention
38







4. Which of the following English swear words do you use more?
Fuck
Shit
Bastard
Bitch
Ass hole
Motherfucker
Any other please mention
5. Where do you learn or mostly come across English swear words?(Please tick all
that apply)




Television Series, Hollywood movies, English Music, etc.
Internet, social media (facebook, whatsapp, etc.)
Friends at college and university
At home ( parents use slang language)
6. Do you understand the meanings of the swear words you use?




No, I don’t,I use them only to express some feelings and emotions better.
Yes I do and I use them in order to intentionally hurt or insult people
I use them as trendy expressions and don’t care about the meanings
Any other please mention
7. Please circle
the level of severity of the following curse words:
•
Fuck : very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Shit : very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Cunt: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Bastard: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Asshole : very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Stupid: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
O! my God: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Jerk: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
•
Pussy: very severe, fairly sever, mild, not swearing
39
8. Do you think the severity of the ‘F words’ in insulting people have reduced over
the years?
 Yes it has, ‘F words’ now are just trendy expressions due to their extensive usage
 No it has not. ‘F words’ are still very severe when it comes to insulting people
 I am not aware of it
9. Do you feel comfortable using swear words in front of your elders? ( parents ,
teachers, and others)
 No, I don’t use curse words in front of them at all
 Yes, I use milder curse words without any problem
 Yes, I use all types of curse of words in front of elders and don’t feel uncomfortable




10. What’s your thought about people who use English curse words?
They are cool, trendy, and over exposed to media and internet
They are fake and just showing off
They don’t have good moral formation at home
It’s just normal, nothing strange or interesting
11. Do your elders appreciate your speaking vulgar language or curse words?
 Strongly agree
 Agree
 Disagree
 Strongly disagree
12. Why do you think some people don’t use curse words?




Moral formation at home
Religious belief
Personal value system
Curse words spoil public image
13. What your opinion on using English swear words? Is it culturally acceptable in
Bangladesh?




English swears are a global trend that we can’t avoid
These swear words are not harming our culture anyway and there’s no problem
We use both Bengali and English swears according to our taste, exposure, and situation
We should not use these swear words
40
14. Do you want to stop the practice of using English swear words?




Yes, because it affects my personality, and against my cultural ethics
No, I think it’s natural to adopt foreign cultural elements
Not completely, these slangs do help express some feelings well
Not sure
15. How often do you find people around you using English swear words?
 Very often
 Often
 Rarely
 Never
Thank you for participating!
41
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