hate speech

USAGE SUMMARY

"hate speech" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe any speech that promotes hatred, intolerance, or discrimination against a group based on their race, gender, sexual orientation etc. For example, "Racist hate speech was used to inflame tensions and divide the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But hate speech inspires hateful acts.

Huffington Post

Hate speech leads to hateful deeds.

Huffington Post

Hate speech?

University of California, Berkeley

Hate-Speech Course Without Discussing Hate Speech?

Princeton University

Hate speech has been criminalised.

The Economist

This is hate speech.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's hate speech".

The Guardian

What is "hate speech"?

The New York Times

Inbox Hate-Speech Course Without Discussing Hate Speech?

Princeton University

"Hate speech cannot be tolerated.

The Washington Post

Hate speech began to proliferate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly differentiate between expressing controversial opinions and inciting violence or discrimination when discussing “hate speech”. This distinction is crucial for protecting free speech while condemning harmful rhetoric.

Common error

Avoid labeling opinions you disagree with as "hate speech" simply because they are offensive. "Hate speech" specifically targets groups based on inherent characteristics with the intent to demean or incite violence. Ensure that the intent and impact align with the definition before using the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hate speech" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific category of speech deemed offensive and harmful. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is both grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

24%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hate speech" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Functioning as a noun phrase, it serves to identify speech that attacks or demeans a group based on protected attributes. It is commonly found in news and academic contexts. While grammatically correct and widely used, it is important to use the term accurately, distinguishing it from merely offensive or controversial opinions. Alternatives like "hateful rhetoric" or "inflammatory speech" can provide nuanced descriptions. Understanding the legal and social implications of "hate speech" is vital in promoting respectful discourse and combating discrimination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hateful rhetoric

Focuses on the style and method of the speech, emphasizing its malicious intent.

incendiary language

Highlights the potential of the language to provoke conflict or strong emotions.

bigoted expression

Emphasizes the prejudiced nature of the statements.

discriminatory remarks

Directly points to the discriminatory aspect of the speech.

offensive statements

Underlines the impact the speech has on its recipients, focusing on the offense caused.

prejudiced discourse

Highlights the underlying biases present in the communication.

inflammatory speech

Similar to incendiary language, but with a broader connotation of stirring unrest.

abusive language

Focuses on the harmful nature of the speech and its potential to cause emotional damage.

vilifying commentary

Highlights the intent to demean or degrade a person or group.

slanderous utterance

Implies that the speech is not only offensive but also false and damaging to someone's reputation.

FAQs

How is "hate speech" defined legally?

The definition of "hate speech" varies by jurisdiction, but it generally involves speech that attacks or demeans a group based on attributes like race, religion, or sexual orientation. Legal definitions often require an element of incitement to violence or discrimination.

What are some examples of "hate speech"?

Examples of "hate speech" include slurs targeting specific groups, advocating for violence against minorities, or spreading conspiracy theories that demonize certain populations. The key is the intent to marginalize or harm based on group identity.

What's the difference between "hate speech" and free speech?

"Hate speech" often falls outside the protection of free speech when it incites violence, defamation, or discrimination. While free speech protects the expression of diverse opinions, it does not shield speech intended to harm specific groups. Some sources advocate for "controlling hate speech" to maintain social harmony.

What can I do if I encounter "hate speech" online?

If you encounter "hate speech" online, report it to the platform where it appears. You can also document the instances of "hate speech" and share them with organizations that combat hate and discrimination. Engage in constructive dialogue to counter hateful narratives, if possible, while being aware of your emotional safety.