blackie

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blackie" is not correct and is considered offensive in written English.
It is typically used as a derogatory term for a person of African descent and should be avoided in all contexts. Example: "I cannot use that term in any respectful conversation."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Neighborhood children called her "blackie" or "sheep head".

The New York Times

Mr Suarez replied "Dale, negro, negro, negro", which meant "okay, blackie, blackie, blackie".

The New York Times

(These sections may be the oddest part of the report: lawyerly discussions about terms like "negro" and "blackie" and "negre" and "noir," and when and where it might be fine to use an expression and when it would be patently offensive to use the same word. Even more jarring are the matter-of-fact and liberal use of unprintable obscenities in a lengthy legal document).

The New York Times

Slurs like "blackie" and "chinkie" for fellow Indians are routinely used without provocation, without inhibition, and importantly, without repercussion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Evra's evidence is that up to this point Mr Suárez had used the word "negro" or "negros" five times in the goalmouth: "Because you are black", "I don't speak to blacks" and "OK, blackie, blackie, blackie".

The Guardian - Sport

There was more of the same: "Fuck off blackie.

The Guardian - Opinion

He now says it means "OK, blackie, blackie, blackie".

The Guardian - Sport

The expert witnesses stated that the phrase "Dale, negro" can be understood as "Bring it on, blackie" or "do it, blackie" or "go ahead, blackie".

The Guardian - Sport

A dog, Blackie, guarded the roof, but Blackie had been stolen by persons unknown.

The New York Times

It's like Blackie the donkey for posh readers... Smacks of desperation at Daily Telegraph".

The Guardian

As the mourners snake across the square their numbers swell with those in search of diversion.Pedro Vásquez, also known as El Negro ("Blackie"), arrives in a pick-up truck and greets us.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the term "blackie" in any context due to its offensive history and connotations. Opt for more respectful and accurate terms like "person of color" or "African American".

Common error

Do not use racial slurs or outdated terms like "blackie". Such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes and causes offense. Always choose respectful and inclusive language.

Linguistic Context

Noun/adjective, but primarily functioning as a derogatory term. While historically used as a nickname, its primary function today is as an offensive slur, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage evokes harm and prejudice, making it unsuitable for respectful communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

40%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "blackie" is identified by Ludwig AI as an offensive racial slur, its usage generally considered incorrect in contemporary English. While examples can be found in various sources such as news and media, its historical use as a derogatory term makes it unsuitable for respectful communication. Alternatives like "person of color" or "African American" should be preferred to avoid causing offense. The expert rating reflects the problematic nature of the term, underscoring the importance of mindful and inclusive language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

person of color

A respectful and widely accepted term for individuals who are not considered white.

individual of African descent

A more formal and precise way to describe someone with African ancestry.

African American

Specifically refers to Americans of African descent.

black individual

A direct but less offensive way to refer to a black person.

dark-skinned person

Focuses on skin tone rather than using a potentially offensive label.

member of the black community

Emphasizes community membership rather than individual characteristics.

a person with dark complexion

A descriptive alternative focused on physical appearance.

someone of African heritage

Highlights the person's ancestral background.

an individual from the black diaspora

Refers to the global community of people of African descent.

the black player

If referring to a player and their skin color is relevant to a story or article.

FAQs

Why is using the term "blackie" considered offensive?

The term "blackie" has a history of being used as a derogatory term for people of African descent. It's best to avoid using it to prevent causing offense and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

What are some respectful alternatives to the term "blackie"?

You can use alternatives like "person of color", "African American", or "black individual" depending on the context.

Is there any situation where using the term "blackie" would be acceptable?

Due to its historical usage as a racial slur, the term "blackie" is generally not acceptable in any situation. It's important to choose respectful and inclusive language.

How can I be more mindful of the language I use when referring to people of different races?

Educate yourself on the history and impact of racial slurs, and be open to feedback from others. Use respectful and inclusive language that avoids perpetuating harmful stereotypes.