Obscenity: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in situations involving extremely offensive language or behavior, typically of a sexual or disgusting nature.

• His speech was filled with so much obscenity, it shocked everyone

Appropriate for describing actions or language that are not in line with societal standards of modesty or morals, often related to sexual matters.

• She was fined for public indecency after participating in an obscene act in public

Best used when describing coarse or rude language or behavior that lacks sophistication, often socially or culturally inappropriate.

• His vulgarity at the dinner table made everyone uncomfortable

Suitable for referring to language that includes swear words or other offensive terms, often used casually but can be deemed disrespectful.

• The movie was full of profanity, so it's not suitable for children

Obscenity, as mentioned earlier, applies to extremely offensive content, in particular with a sexual nature, typically in formal or legal contexts.

• The artist was arrested for creating obscene artwork.
• Obscenity laws vary significantly between countries.

Lewdness indicates a vulgar, crude, or offensive sexual manner. This term is often used to describe unwanted sexual advances or behavior.

• He faced charges for public lewdness.
• The comedian's lewd jokes were not appreciated by everyone.

Indecency refers to behavior or material that is not appropriate or acceptable, especially in a sexual sense. This word is often used in legal terms and by authorities.

• She was shocked by the indecency of his proposal.
• The TV show was criticized for indecency.

An offensive gesture generally refers to any physical motion or signal that is meant to insult or offend someone. This can be in sexual or non-sexual contexts.

• He made an offensive gesture at the driver who cut him off.
• The fans were ejected from the game for making offensive gestures towards the players.