profanity

Everyday

1. Profanity is swearing or rude, offensive language. tree →
2. A profanity is one swear word or rude expression. tree →
3. (formal) Profanity is disrespect for holy things. tree →

In the lessons

In school rules, games and films it is a reason for punishment or age ratings: «no profanity». Online chat filters block profanities. Pupils meet rough talk in real speech but should know when it is not acceptable. Phrases: «use profanity», «a string of profanities», «profanity filter».

Examples

• The game has a profanity filter. tree →
• Profanity is not allowed in school. tree →
• He let out a string of profanities when he stubbed his toe. tree →
• The film has strong profanity. tree →
• Please avoid profanity in your story. tree →
• The coach banned profanity on the pitch. tree →
• She blushed at the profanity. tree →
• (formal) Profanity may lead to removal from the venue. tree →

Note

Uncountable for swearing in general; countable for single words (profanities). Pronounced pro-FAN-i-tee. Synonyms: swearing, bad language, cursing.