How do you feel about colloquial/hyperbolic use of “rape”?

10 comments

1. I’m unsure how I feel about it. I don’t personally use it but notice particularly young (under 25) people using it a lot. Generally I’m not a big fan of policing language (outside of racial slurs and that type of stuff) but hearing it used so casually bothers me. I realize “getting fucked” “screwed” are commonplace but using “rape” synonymously with these terms seems problematic.

   Never entirely sure what to say when I hear someone use rape in this context. Maybe it’s a generational thing but I’d love to hear your thoughts!

2. I consider that inappropriate and choose to avoid people who use it in that way.

3. I don’t mind it the same way I don’t mind “murder” being used that way.

4. I feel that using the word “rape” colloquially is inappropriate and insensitive. Rape is a serious crime with severe consequences, and using the word in a casual or joking manner devalues the experience of survivors.

5. I don’t like it and I think it’s insensitive

6. It’s messed up. . . I feel like few if any people who use the word that way have experienced it.

7. I really dislike people using it in such a manner. Insensitive towards survivors of sexual violence.
   No, paying extra on tickets isn’t the same as sexual assault.

8. i think people who use it this way are terrible and insensitive.

9. I think it’s poor taste and can sometimes be very triggering when you don’t expect it, depending on the situation

10. I despise it and have a deep mistrust of anyone who uses the word that way.