to hate the use of the word c**t as an abusive term?

[singsinthebath]

I don't have a problem with swearing - I've only used asterisks as I'm aware that some people prefer not to have the word cunt in a subject headline.

I have no problem with someone referring to their vagina/vulva as their cunt if they so wish. (I'd probably go for a euphemism - but each to their own)

But I do have a problem with someone suggesting that an abusive husband or partner is "being a cunt" (as I read in a post earlier). This is derogatory - suggesting that the female genitalia is base or sordid.

AIBU or am I overthinking this?

I dare say 'pratt' might also be taken as fairly innocent by some, and not by others. (A friend from years ago, and a policeman in chosen career, had that surname, which meant he was a target for 'banter' from both cops and criminals.)

I see its value in its level of offence though dittany- I understand what you are saying about its dual usage, but calling people genitals is and has always been offensive; I like the fact that the female version is more powerful.

However, I am aware that I am in a minority with my views on this one.

I understand your argument, and I cannot win this one with you dittany; I am not going to try

I am coming at this from the viewpoint that meaning does matter very much- the fact is that what is signified by the word cunt is primarily a bad person; usually male (although not in the US I believe?). It's less frequently used to describe the vagina, even though that was its original meaning. Language changes, and I wonder how the word will be used in four or five generations' time?

On the other hand, I think c**k is used far too much on MN too as a term of abuse.

Cook?

As an early feminist from the 60's I would never use the 'C' word and still cringe when I hear it - even worse to see it written on Mumsnet. I would use Arse instead as everyone has one and they are definatley not a pretty sight.

I was taken aback last night when playing Anagram Magic online to have BREAST disallowed as a rude word!!! Was also once deleted from Martin's money tips for posting a recipe for Cock-a-Leekie soup. Seems there is no sensible middle ground these days.

It makes me cringe to hear it and see it written down too. As does the F word. I just don't like swearing, especially when it peppers everyday speech so much. Why can't people extend their vocabulary and use more interesting words. Anyway, why do people have to go around calling other people rude names?

i agree with you Youknownothingofthecrunch (found that sooo hard to type without wanting to put spaces in!!!)

f**k is used so much now just like fcuk...i wouldn't want to wear a top with that on and i find it offensive to see it too in slogans for french connection. I certainly wouldn't put it on my child.

I hate the word c**t (had to use the asterix there) if talking about someone who is one I tend to say that they are a C U Next Tuesday..so sad i know ...although def use it in the heat of the moment ie road rage incidents spring to mind.

Best word of all though is Bollocks..it just fits every situation good or bad...love it..

I've been thinking about this some more. And actually I do find the word offensive when used to mean vagina. As dittany points out it has been claimed by the porn industry and - in my view at least - is a very degrading and sexualised term for a piece of anatomy. I would never describe myself as having a cunt. I find the idea of it quite sordid and crude.

On the other hand I value it as a powerful swear word.

Spanish I have the same problem when I need to login.

Zoe Williams has a little article about it here.

Do I have to consider myself a cunt warrior, bof?

YADNBU, totally agree OP

I hate it and think it is demeaning for women to use it as a term of abuse and abusive for men to do so.I once had a class of 16 yr old girls whose language was peppered with f and you c etc.I told them that if they regarded the sexual act and parts of their own bodies as suitable swear words then thats what others,especially boys,would think too.I find that sort of language degrading to those who use it-sorry-you can all biscuit away now because I know you wont agree.I might make 'biscuit' my new swear word.