To use the word “queer”?

[BowermansNose]

A few times recently I’ve found myself wanting to use the word “queer” to describe something odd or unusual (in the original sense of the word). I don’t know if I’m being influenced by some novels I’ve read of whatever. My parents also have an expression “up Queer Street”.

However, I’m obviously aware of the other meaning that relates to sexuality, and it has had pejorative connotations.

AIBU to use “queer” in the original sense?

I use it in its original sense.

Yanbu but it's been adopted by the LGBQT so I think it depends who you are talking to

I think it would be obvious from context that you were using it in the sense of 'odd'.

I would avoid using it in connection with LGB people though as while a few may choose to reclaim it many other find it derogatory.

I think context is everything. I still hear the word used around me in a context where it's clearly not about sexuality or in any way pejorative.

I'm reading Enid Blyton with my son at the moment, and anything mildly unusual is 'queer'. I file it mentally with 'Oh, blow Julian, I've left my torch behind!' and 'Do let's explore this cave/abandoned mineshaft/ mysterious castle, Dick, while the girls make beds out of bracken and set out the potted meat sandwiches and ginger beer!'

I don’t like it. Queer in the sense of odd, unusual, abnormal was the context in which it was used as a slur. I’ve had that word shouted at me in derision, and while I am happy for it to be reclaimed by the LGBTQ community (although I don’t describe myself as queer, I identify as gay) I think I’d feel uncomfortable to hear it used in any other way. Although I never have.

You really can't think of another word to replace queer? Or is it because you don't want to and don't care if you offend others. Lots of terms and sayings were ok years ago that are considered derogatory or offensive nowadays.

I unthinkingly used the phrase 'queered the pitch' yesterday and was beset with worry that it was an offensive phrase. I honestly don't know anymore so it may be best to avoid it!

If I heard someone not in that community use the word 'queer' to describe something odd/random/unexpected (the sense you use it), I would assume they were being deliberately goady and seeking a rise out of someone for using this word 'properly in its 'original meaning'. I'd make a mental note to avoid this twat like the plague.

But yes, outside the world of bedtime Enid Blyton, this. Nor is it a word I use around gay friends. Some certainly use it of themselves and other gay people, but it's not mine to reclaim.

I actually really love the word queer, particularly in the sense of “I’m feeling a bit queer” for not well. But I wouldn’t use it, for all the reasons mentioned. I don’t think it’s particularly offensive since queer has been reclaimed and isn’t an offensive word anymore

I use it in original sense.

I don't know how many people are avoiding me like the plague as a result though. Nor do I care.

Venn diagram of people who use queer in its original sense because it's fine now its been reclaimed and people who happily sing offensive racial terms because they are the song lyrics is basically a circle.

Venn diagram of people who use queer in its original sense because it's fine now its been reclaimed and people who happily sing offensive racial terms because they are the song lyrics is basically a circle.

Wow, I'm quite shocked by how offensive you find the word "queer".

You really can't think of another word to replace queer? Or is it because you don't want to and don't care if you offend others.

How peculiar . I didn't say I couldn't think of an other word, just that it is one word in my vocabulary.

Wow, I'm quite shocked by how offensive you find the word "queer".

Check your privilege

Venn diagram of people who use queer in its original sense because it's fine now its been reclaimed and people who happily sing offensive racial terms because they are the song lyrics is basically a circle.

And they had a golly when they were little that they still have, and it's just a beloved toy that their definitely non-racist granny gave them when they turned three, thank you very much.

It might be regional, here everyone uses it in the original sense. It's not generational either, I'm 30 and for me and my friends it's still normal.

And they had a golly when they were little that they still have, and it's just a beloved toy that their definitely non-racist granny gave them when they turned three, thank you very much.

Whoa. That is not the same.

As I think this thread proves already, nowt as queer as folk...

And they had a golly when they were little that they still have, and it's just a beloved toy that their definitely non-racist granny gave them when they turned three, thank you very much

How is a purposely made mocking doll comparable to a word that originally had no offence intended?

Those saying it’s fine to use it in its original non-offensive context, would it be ok to use the shortened version of Pakistani in its original non-offensive context?

Those saying it’s fine to use it in its original non-offensive context, would it be ok to use the shortened version of Pakistani in its original non-offensive context?

I wouldn't if I were you.

Phone well quite

@Coldilox Quite what?

You'll be saying it's wrong to use gay next.