Index of examples for public language
Quotes – about language reflects social values (strong emotions) (See comments from by Race Discrimination Commissioner Tim Soutphommasane
Context: MCDC (Kate Burridge): context also influences the use of language
Taboo topics
Examples of exclusive language that breaks taboos and leads to public outcry/condemnation (Obvious; public contexts)
- Quote from Professor re reduced tolerance of “ist” taboos.
- Sexist terms: Chris Gayle, Ministers Dutton and Briggs plus the commentary
Racist terms: Kevin Rudd’s comments and Professor Spur (Sydney University): derogatory comments about Abos and Ching /Asians; “ape”; (November 2014) - Use of Jewish terms by ex PM Tony Abbott: immediately apologised (he called Mr Shorten the “Dr Goebbels of economic policy”. Dr Goebbels was Hitler’s Minister for Propaganda and prime supporter of the extermination of the Jews.)
- Sexist language: Andrew Jarmann is suspended from Tripe M Adelaide in May 2015
- Unspoken ban on religious defamation relating to prophets … (“nous ne sommes pas Charlie Hebdo”)
- Refusal to amend 18C – show the importance of restrictions to use of language in the public arena with regards to offensive terms. (See proposed amendments and also Tim Souph’s comments) (racism)
- Defamation of religious prophets is definitely taboo. See comments from Courier Mail.
Reduction in taboos:
- Images of genitalia and sexual innuendos
- Swearing
Context: MCDC (Kate Burridge): context also influences the use of language
Doublespeak/euphemism (subtle use of exclusive language)
- “double dipping” referring to women
- “Team Australia” referring to Muslims
- The language relating to asylum seekers (burnside: change in departmental name to Border Protection)
- The language relating to war
Euphemism/Inclusive language (positive)
- Face-saving dignity-protective measures (esp. with regards to personal matters: life, death, sex, toilets)
- See Inclusive language: social change
Exclusive language/Political correctness gone too far
- Commentators regarding the Charlie Hebdo incident
- Comments from comedians.
Use of Jargon
Budget /economic jargon
Trend to plain language terms
Return to Public Language Notes
See Summary: English Language Notes 2015