Book contents
- Words that Wound
- Words that Wound
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Figures
- Tables
- Preface
- Disclaimer: A Note to Readers
- Introduction
- 1Setting the Scene
- 2Understanding Offence
- 3Data and Methodological Considerations
- 4Navigating the Landscape of Offensive Discourse
- 5Semantic Domains of Offensive Language
- 6Patterns of Offensive Language Usage
- 7Less Explicitly Offensive Language
- 8Creativity and Offence
- 9Conclusion
- References
- Index
5 - Semantic Domains of Offensive Language
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 April 2026
Book contents
- Words that Wound
- Words that Wound
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Figures
- Tables
- Preface
- Disclaimer: A Note to Readers
- Introduction
- 1Setting the Scene
- 2Understanding Offence
- 3Data and Methodological Considerations
- 4Navigating the Landscape of Offensive Discourse
- 5Semantic Domains of Offensive Language
- 6Patterns of Offensive Language Usage
- 7Less Explicitly Offensive Language
- 8Creativity and Offence
- 9Conclusion
- References
- Index
Summary
Chapter 5 focuses on the semantic domains of offensive language. The analysis of the semantic domains further confirms that offensive language is opinionated, intrusive and judgemental. Using the Wmatrix5 tools, we identify key areas of meaning that allow offenders to express, for example, criticism and negativity. Our analysis reveals a significant overrepresentation of terms related to, for example, dislike, foolishness and negative judgements about appearance, which overall point to a tendency towards personal attacks. By focusing on these domains, we aim to address further gaps in offensive language research, and predict alternative expressions of similar meanings.
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- Words that WoundExploring Online Offensive Language, pp. 91 - 106Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2026
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