bastard

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "bastard" is considered vulgar and inappropriate for formal writing. It can be used in informal writing. For example: "What a bastard he was to break up with her out of the blue."

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"What sick bastard would want to provide free health care," it said.

The Guardian

The bastard.

The Guardian - Film

"Facadism was condemned as the bastard child of conservation when it first emerged, but it clearly hasn't gone away".

The Guardian - Arts

— ABC News Intern (@ABCnewsIntern) May 11, 2014 This poor bastard can't even get the dubstep right.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In keeping with the spirit of the side, Noble was yet another on-pitch leader and a right nasty bastard when necessary - "a lovely, typically earthy Manchester lad," wrote Eamon Dunphy.

The Guardian - Sport

According Honest Trailer's video, the new series will show "mopey bastard" Jon Snow, imp-slapping Tyrion Lannister, and dragon-fixated queen Daenerys fighting to eventually knock Justin Bieber off the world's most uncomfortable chair.

The Guardian

That bastard at the tube who tries to give me ShortList.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's just a bastard of a disease – it started with bowel cancer and it's spread.

The Guardian - Sport

Because it is itself an unruly bastard tongue, it is capacious enough for everyone to find within it their own unique cadences.

The Guardian - Opinion

This time, at least there can be no doubt that Cleese definitely did say "bastard".

The Guardian

Jaap Hoeksma, the inventor of the game and a philosopher of law from Amsterdam, says that when Edward Heath saw Eurocracy he said: "You bastard!

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the word "bastard" judiciously, considering your audience and the context. It carries strong negative connotations and may be offensive in formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using the word "bastard" in formal writing or professional communication. Opt for more neutral terms like "illegitimate", "inferior", or "difficult" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The word "bastard" functions as a noun to denote an illegitimate child or a despicable person. It also serves as an adjective to describe something irregular or inferior, and as an interjection to express dismay. Ludwig AI examples show its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "bastard" is a versatile term with historical roots meaning an illegitimate child, but it has evolved to primarily function as a derogatory term. Ludwig AI examples show its use as a noun, adjective, and interjection, commonly expressing disapproval or frustration. While prevalent in news and media, its informal register makes it unsuitable for academic or professional contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's crucial to consider your audience and context when using this word, opting for more neutral alternatives in formal settings to avoid causing offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

son of a bitch

A more vulgar and aggressive term for a despicable person.

illegitimate child

Specifically refers to a person born out of wedlock, lacking the broader negative connotations.

contemptible person

A more formal and less offensive way to describe someone deserving of scorn.

despicable individual

Similar to "contemptible person" but emphasizes the individual's moral failings.

difficult problem

Focuses on the challenging nature of a situation, rather than attributing malice.

inferior product

Highlights the substandard quality of something, without the pejorative tone.

mongrel

Specifically refers to a mixed-breed animal or plant, sometimes used figuratively.

unpleasant experience

A milder way to describe something undesirable or disagreeable.

tough situation

Emphasizes the difficulty of circumstances, rather than assigning blame or negativity.

unconventional variant

Describes something that deviates from the norm, without necessarily implying negativity.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the word "bastard"?

The word "bastard" is generally appropriate only in informal settings or when expressing strong negative emotions. It's best avoided in formal writing or professional contexts due to its offensive potential.

What are some less offensive alternatives to "bastard"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "illegitimate child", "contemptible person", "difficult problem", or "inferior product".

Does "bastard" always refer to someone born out of wedlock?

While the original meaning of "bastard" relates to illegitimacy, it's now more commonly used as a general insult to describe a despicable or unpleasant person.

Is there a difference between calling someone a "bastard" and a "son of a bitch"?

Both are insults, but "son of a bitch" is generally considered more vulgar and aggressive than "bastard", carrying a stronger emotional charge.