What Is Another Way to Say “Bad Language”?

Looking for synonyms for bad language? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say bad language.

  • Profanity
  • Swearing
  • Vulgarity
  • Obscenity
  • Curse words
  • Foul language
  • Offensive language
  • Coarse language
  • Expletives
  • Rude words
  • Slang
  • Abusive language
  • Derogatory language
  • Inappropriate language
  • Scurrilous language

Want to learn how to say bad language professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Profanity

When to use: Suitable for language that is irreverent and often offensive.
Example: “The company’s code of conduct strictly prohibits the use of profanity in the workplace.”

2. Swearing

When to use: Appropriate for the use of oaths or curses, often considered inappropriate in formal settings.
Example: “During the meeting, he was reprimanded for swearing in front of the clients.”

3. Vulgarity

When to use: Ideal for language that is crude, coarse, or indecent.
Example: “The HR department received a complaint about the use of vulgarity by a team member.”

4. Obscenity

When to use: Used for language that is offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality and decency.
Example: “Broadcasting obscenity is against the regulatory guidelines for television networks.”

5. Curse Words

When to use: Suitable for strong or offensive language, often used to express anger or frustration.
Example: “The script was revised to remove curse words to make it suitable for a wider audience.”

6. Foul Language

When to use: Appropriate for language that is highly offensive or vulgar.
Example: “The use of foul language in the office is grounds for immediate disciplinary action.”

7. Offensive Language

When to use: Ideal for language that can cause offense or discomfort.
Example: “The company’s advertising campaign was criticized for using offensive language.”

8. Coarse Language

When to use: Used for language that is rough or vulgar in nature.
Example: “The workshop facilitator warned the group about the use of coarse language in some video materials.”

9. Expletives

When to use: Suitable for swear words or phrases used to express strong emotions.
Example: “The employee was cautioned about his use of expletives during team meetings.”

10. Rude Words

When to use: Appropriate for language that is impolite or disrespectful.
Example: “Rude words have no place in professional email communication.”

11. Slang

When to use: Used generally for informal language, but can include profane or vulgar terms.
Example: “While slang is common in casual conversation, it should be avoided in formal presentations.”

12. Abusive Language

When to use: Ideal for language that is insulting, demeaning, or threatening.
Example: “Abusive language towards colleagues is a serious violation of our workplace policies.”

13. Derogatory Language

When to use: Suitable for language that shows a critical or disrespectful attitude.
Example: “The use of derogatory language in any form is not tolerated by our organization.”

14. Inappropriate Language

When to use: Appropriate for language that is not suitable for a given context or situation.
Example: “During the review, the manager highlighted the use of inappropriate language in the report.”

15. Scurrilous Language

When to use: Used for language that is scandalous, defamatory, or offensive.
Example: “The journalist was accused of using scurrilous language in the article.”

Linda Brown