n-word
The n-word is a euphemism for nigger, used when speakers want to reference that slur without saying or writing it directly.
The circumlocution acknowledges the word's extreme offensiveness while allowing discussion of it: He was fired for using the n-word, The novel contains the n-word over two hundred times.
The euphemism became standard in journalism and broadcasting by the 1990s.
Concerning ethnic origin
- epithetDescriptive tag for someone
- hateIntense hostile aversion
- derogatoryExpressing criticism or disrespect
- offensiveCausing displeasure or attack-oriented
bigotry · dehumanizing · slang · taboo · profanity · insult · discrimination · prejudice
Mild substitute for bluntness
- censorshipOfficial content restriction
- tabooCultural or social prohibition
- unspeakableBeyond verbal expression
- redactedOfficially removed from view
asterisks · bleeped · sanitized · debate · controversy · freedom · speech · context
Reassigning to new purpose
- hip-hopRhythmic spoken-word music
- vernacularEveryday regional speech
- in-groupExclusive social cluster
- solidarityUnity among allies
community · cultural · identity · empowerment · brotherhood · kinship · familiarity · endearment
racial
Concerning ethnic origin
- epithetDescriptive tag for someone
- hateIntense hostile aversion
- derogatoryExpressing criticism or disrespect
offensive · bigotry · dehumanizing · slang · taboo · profanity · insult · discrimination · prejudice · racism
euphemism
Mild substitute for bluntness
- censorshipOfficial content restriction
- tabooCultural or social prohibition
- unspeakableBeyond verbal expression
redacted · asterisks · bleeped · sanitized · debate · controversy · freedom · speech · context · intent
reappropriation
Reassigning to new purpose
- hip-hopRhythmic spoken-word music
- vernacularEveryday regional speech
- in-groupExclusive social cluster
solidarity · community · cultural · identity · empowerment · brotherhood · kinship · familiarity · endearment · colloquial
n-wordAfrican American
U.S. Black ethnic identity
Black · person of color · brother · sister · BIPOC