N-word
A euphemism for *nigger*, used when referring to the word itself rather than deploying it: He was fired for using the N-word on a podcast.
The circumlocution emerged in the late twentieth century as the slur became increasingly taboo in public discourse.
It allows discussion of the word's use without repeating it, though critics argue this sanitization obscures the word's brutal history.
Prejudice based on ethnicity
- hate speechLanguage attacking protected characteristics
- derogatoryExpressing criticism or disrespect
- epithetDescriptive tag for someone
- bigotryIntolerance toward differing views
dehumanization · Jim Crow · segregation · discrimination · oppression · slaveowners · hatred · degradation
Official content restriction
- euphemismMild substitute for bluntness
- unspeakableBeyond verbal expression
- redactionObscuring sensitive text
- bleepElectronic censoring tone
asterisk · expurgation · content warning · sensitivity · debate · free speech · context · intent
Rhythmic spoken-word music
- rap lyricsRhythmic spoken-word verses
- in-groupExclusive social cluster
- solidarityUnity among allies
- reappropriationReassigning to new purpose
Tupac · NWA · code-switching · community · identity · endearment · camaraderie
racism
Prejudice based on ethnicity
- hate speechLanguage attacking protected characteristics
- derogatoryExpressing criticism or disrespect
- epithetDescriptive tag for someone
bigotry · dehumanization · Jim Crow · segregation · discrimination · oppression · slaveowners · hatred · degradation · insult
censorship
Official content restriction
- euphemismMild substitute for bluntness
- unspeakableBeyond verbal expression
- redactionObscuring sensitive text
bleep · asterisk · expurgation · content warning · sensitivity · debate · free speech · context · intent · harm reduction
hip-hop
Rhythmic spoken-word music
- rap lyricsRhythmic spoken-word verses
- in-groupExclusive social cluster
- solidarityUnity among allies
reappropriation · Tupac · NWA · code-switching · community · identity · endearment · camaraderie
N-wordAfrican American
U.S. Black ethnic identity
Black · person of color · brother · sister · king