In a turn of events that has left many Australians reeling, the once unspeakable 'C-word' has made its way into mainstream television, uncensored and unapologetic. This seismic shift in broadcasting standards has sparked a fiery debate among viewers, parents, and linguists alike, as society grapples with the implications of this linguistic liberation.

The 'C-word', historically regarded as one of the most offensive terms in the English language, has been creeping into the living rooms of families across the nation, thanks to scenes like those in the New Zealand series 'After the Party.' In a particularly bold moment, the character Penny, played by Robyn Malcolm, uses the term to describe a student, without the expected censorship. This scene, among others, has become a talking point for its raw portrayal of frustration, resonating with many, including perhaps some tight-lipped educators.

The shock doesn't end there. Charlotte Crosby, of the UK's 'Geordie Shore' fame, expressed her astonishment at the frequency with which the term is used in the Australian adaptation, Aussie Shore.'While the British version limited the use of the word, the Australian iteration lets it fly freely, though it's bleeped out for UK audiences.

This 'vulgar' word has been heard in TV shows recently. Credit: Freepik / Freepik

This newfound prevalence on TV has led to a cultural examination of the word's power and place in society. Streaming services, with their global reach and lack of traditional broadcasting constraints, have played a significant role in normalizing the term. Linguists suggest that this increased usage could dilute its shock value and offensive nature, a phenomenon known as 'verbicide.'

Australia's unique relationship with the 'C-word' is complex. The country is known for its more relaxed attitude towards the term, often using it in a paradoxically affectionate manner. However, the transition from street slang to broadcasted dialogue has been significant. Shows from the US, UK, and beyond are now presenting the word unfiltered to Australian audiences, regardless of age.

The conversation around the 'C-word' isn't new. Feminist icon Germaine Greer has long advocated for its normalisation, while comedian Rodney Rude faced legal consequences for its use in his stand-up routines. The word's journey from taboo to television has been gradual but persistent, with shows like 'Sex and the City' and 'RuPaul's Drag Race' incorporating it into their narratives, often with a twist of empowerment or humour.

Yet, not everyone is on board with this linguistic evolution. Many parents and grandparents are concerned about the potential impact on children and the perpetuation of misogyny. Parenting experts emphasise the importance of parental controls and boundaries in media consumption to protect young minds from harmful language.

On the flip side, some individuals, like edgy wedding celebrant Ashley Bunney, welcome the unfiltered use of the word on TV, seeing it as a reflection of reality and a break from sanitised programming.

As the 'C-word' continues to spark controversy and conversation, it's clear that its place in Australian media is evolving. Whether this trend will lead to a broader acceptance or a backlash remains to be seen. What is certain is that the dialogue around language, censorship, and cultural norms is far from over.

Key Takeaways

• The use of the word historically considered the most offensive in the English language is on the rise on television, with Australians becoming more desensitised to it.
• Streaming services and an increase in its usage on TV scripts have contributed to its broader acceptance and potential decrease in its perceived profanity.
• Linguists and scholars offer mixed views on the word's reclamation and its redirection from a term of offense to one of power or endearment within certain communities.
• While some welcome the change, seeing it as an evolution of language, many parents and grandparents express concern over the potential impact on children and the importance of maintaining decency and respect in public broadcasting.

So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, we turn to you for your thoughts. How do you feel about the increasing presence of the 'C-word' on television? Is it a sign of progress and free speech, or a step too far in the erosion of decency? Share your opinions with us, as we navigate this uncharted territory in the landscape of modern broadcasting.

 

[HRV]

I see the ”c” word on social media posts more and more. I find it totally offensive and objectionable. Always used by men. I would like to see it banned.

 

[Gazman]

I think it's time for a little more morality. Both the "C" word and the "F" should not be allowed on free to air tv.

 

[henselhd]

HRV - you should listen to the Christmas song by a few women -It is called "try not to be a cunt today"

 

[magpie1]

I don't think that it is necessary at all on TV shows .....sure times are changing but there is no reason to use such profanity especially on a medium where children could be present....it's a matter of morals that many of the Senior fraternity still attach to themselves and other community members. Obviously the writers of these shows are looking for more attention, without any consideration for decent human conversation, it really shows a dire lack of imagination by them IMO.

 

[BMS]

Definitely going too far. What is wrong with decent language, total lack of respect.

 

[JenH23]

I am totally disgusted that such filthy language would be used in shows on the T.V. It doesn't matter that it's supposed to be "trendy" these days to swear and then shove it in peoples faces. I think it shows a complete lack of intelligence and a total lack of knowledge of the English language. The writers obviously don't care about the people / children that may be watching.

 

[Smartcook]

This word was an old English word used freely in the past. It is men who have turned into a word that we are ashamed of. It is a word used to describe a woman's private anatomy, and men denigrated it to be considered unspeakable today. I remember seeing The Vagina Monologues in London many years ago, and it was based on men's disgraceful treatment of women in many ways. Honor Blackman's monologue was about the history of this word and how men thought so little of women that they turned it into a swear word and a derogatory term.

 

[Bill MacL]

When Kevin Bloody Wilson went to Canada, he was told, you can't say the "c" word in your show. He said, that would make a great name for a song. So, he wrote, "You can't say cunt in Canada" it was a smash hit.

 

[MIZMAC]

My late husband swore profusely but never did I hear him use the c!!! word.

 

[magpie1]

My late husband swore profusely but never did I hear him use the c!!! word.

RESPECT

 

[Mr Chips]

The two degenerate words are common in everyday use in Australia and I feel it is a great shame as they belittle so much but so be it. I cannot justify in any way the use of these words in social media or television and I do find them to cause me discomfort when I hear them on the TV. I like many of the programs on Youtube and Netflix but they are becoming peppered with these words which completely annoy me and cause me to shut down the production. I guess there is nothing else I can do but miss out on what I might otherwise have enjoyed.

 

[novezar]

I think it's time for a little more morality. Both the "C" word and the "F" should not be allowed on free to air tv.

Also on these postings as well.

 

[Trever Powell]

Don't say it shouldn't on television because of children might be listening most of the little darlings already now the word & a lot of others

 

[IAN3005]

HRV - you should listen to the Christmas song by a few women -It is called "try not to be a cunt today"

Women of 50-plus years are using it..... I for one never used foul language... my grandfather used to say people who use foul language lack vocabulary

 

[Ringdragon]

The 'creep' has started. Which word will be next? Not all of us live in the gutter. Raise your standards. TV has survived for 60 years without this sort of language. Why change now?

 

[magpie1]

The two degenerate words are common in everyday use in Australia and I feel it is a great shame as they belittle so much but so be it. I cannot justify in any way the use of these words in social media or television and I do find them to cause me discomfort when I hear them on the TV. I like many of the programs on Youtube and Netflix but they are becoming peppered with these words which completely annoy me and cause me to shut down the production. I guess there is nothing else I can do but miss out on what I might otherwise have enjoyed.

Don't say it shouldn't on television because of children might be listening most of the little darlings already now the word & a lot of others

Still doesn't excuse the fact that those words have no place in my loungeroom. There is no place for this on TV.....If people want that sort of entertainment then put it on some ADULT Rated program on the internet.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Women of 50-plus years are using it..... I for one never used foul language... my grandfather used to say people who use foul language lack vocabulary

Where did you get that from !! Women over 50 are using it , what planet are you living on?

 

[Ivory]

If I swore as a child I had my mouth washed out with soap! It was disgusting. My children, in their 40s, were told to never use language that they wouldn’t use in front of their nanna and granddad. I don’t swear, my children and grandchildren don’t swear and we shouldn’t be confronted by it in the media, in any format, including social media.

 

[Suzanne rose]

I'm by far no prude , if I hurt myself I will often cuss but the thing I hate is when people need to swear in normal conversation.

The C word is one I will never use , I have always hated it.

When hubby is being stupid I will tell him to stop being a dick but I would never call him a P.ick. as I feel it's very disrespectful the same as the C word.

It all comes down to R E S P E C T.