Naughty Words You Should No Longer Use

Now that I have your attention, take this opportunity to learn words that are no longer in vogue.

Some of the words are insensitive, or generally offensive. Other words are prejudicial or sexist. Still others have been replaced by new medical terms that don’t stigmatize mental health.

The following words are not popular and are no longer acceptable for use:

Formatted:

• Old word (new word)

• Handicapped (disabled person)
• Oriental (Asian)
• Shell shock (PTSD)
• Retarded (intellectual disability)
• Native American (Indigenous)
• Indian giver (take backer)
• Midget (little person)
• Actress (Actor)
• Stewardess (Flight attendant)
• Senile (Dementia)
• Colored (African American)
• Caucasian (White)
• Bellhop (baggage handler)
• Gal (lady)
• Orderly (medical assistant)
• Ice Box (refrigerator)
• Dungarees (jeans)
• Man hours (labor hours)
• Master bedroom (primary bedroom)
• Insane (mentally ill)
• White list (approved list)
• Exotic (strangely unique)
• Sex change (transition)
• Non-white (person of color)
• Elderly (older adult)
• Addict (substance abuser)
• Homeless (unhoused)
• Man hours (staff hours)
• Asperger’s (autism spectrum)

The words you use say a lot about who you are. That’s why staying informed about language trends is important.

Thank you for reading.

08/23/2024