Expletive: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when referring to a word or phrase that is offensive or used to express strong emotion. It is a formal term often found in written contexts.

• The director’s cut of the movie contains several expletives that were removed from the theatrical release.
• During his speech, he accidentally let out an expletive when he lost his train of thought.

This term is used in everyday informal conversations when someone wants to refer to offensive or taboo words.

• She was so angry that she used a curse word in front of everyone.
• We were taught in school not to use curse words.

A common term used in casual conversations to refer to words that are offensive or considered impolite.

• He muttered a swear word under his breath when he stubbed his toe.
• Parents often try to keep their children from using swear words.

This word is used to describe language that shows disrespect for something sacred or taboo, often used in formal or semi-formal contexts. It has a negative connotation.

• The football coach was fined for using profanity during the game.
• His use of profanity shocked everyone at the meeting.