slur

USAGE SUMMARY

"slur" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is a verb meaning to speak or sing with slurring, that is, to speak or sing without distinct articulation. Example sentence: She was so tired, her words were practically just one long slur.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For most gay men, it only becomes an issue when they sleep with women in the present, especially because, since homosexuality as a militant issue has waned, the word bisexuality is seen as a slur.

The Guardian - Film

In the meantime, here's a little something he cooked up on the game earlier: Lest anyone think Queensland are getting tired of beating New South Wales, Maroons skipper Cameron Smith did his best to put that slur to rest during the week as he emphasised Queensland's enduring level of "hate" for the Blues.

The Guardian - Sport

Way back before that, of course, he was banned, and put through counselling, when he used a racial slur after being dismissed in a one-day match against Sri Lanka.

The Guardian - Sport

"The determination said the use of the slur was 'repugnant', and it is upsetting and entirely unacceptable for this to be used in a sporting event such as the ATP World Tour where equality amongst sportsmen is a predicate to fair competition and, indeed, paramount to the success of the Tour and of the sport," the statement continued.

The Guardian - Sport

Should the footballer have the right to delete the slur he made on the pitch?

The Guardian - Opinion

These allegations are completely untrue and a slur on both the producers and the BBC Science Unit.

The Guardian - Opinion

He had a slur from the shootings.

The Guardian - Music

As with the bust-up with consultants, some GPs view the new-style contract that the government wants them to sign as a slur on their professional integrity.

The Economist

He says that the allegations are a slur, although he has not produced any evidence that he actually turned up.

The Economist

In a trio of films—"Four Weddings and a Funeral", "Notting Hill" and "Bridget Jones's Diary"—he delivered the laugh lines of Richard Curtis's scripts with split-second timing, nicely masked by a blithering stutter or a caddish slur.

The Economist

Although ministers also dangled the prospect of extra cash, especially for those who do the most NHS work, consultants and those in training are outraged by what they see as a slur on their professional integrity.How fair is the government being?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "slur", be precise in identifying the specific group or individual targeted by the offensive remark. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "slur" in contexts where the offense is unintentional or unclear. Ensure the term is reserved for instances of deliberate and malicious denigration.

Linguistic Context

The word "slur" functions primarily as a noun, denoting an insulting or disparaging remark, or as a verb, meaning to insult or defame someone. As Ludwig highlights, it refers to something considered repugnant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "slur" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used to denote or describe offensive and derogatory language. As Ludwig indicates, it's often associated with repugnant behavior. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, serving the purpose of identifying and condemning prejudiced remarks. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to use the term accurately, avoiding vague or unintentional applications. Consider alternatives like "offensive remark" or "derogatory comment" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insulting term

Directly points to the offensive nature of the word or phrase used.

offensive remark

Focuses on the spoken aspect of the insult, highlighting its potential to cause offense.

hurtful epithet

Highlights the emotional impact and targeting nature of the insulting word.

derogatory comment

Emphasizes the belittling and disrespectful nature of the statement.

disparaging remark

Suggests a comment that diminishes or undervalues someone or something.

defamatory statement

Highlights the aspect of damaging someone's reputation through false information.

pejorative expression

Emphasizes the intent to express contempt or disapproval.

slighting insinuation

Focuses on the indirect and subtle nature of the insult.

contemptuous language

Emphasizes the expression of disdain and disrespect in the wording itself.

scurrilous accusation

Highlights the malicious and scandalous nature of the charge.

FAQs

How is "slur" used in a sentence?

The word "slur" can be used as both a noun and a verb. For example, "The comment was a racial "slur"" (noun) or "He attempted to "slur" his opponent's reputation" (verb).

What words can replace the noun "slur"?

Synonyms for "slur" include "insult", "affront", "aspersion", or "denigration", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "slur"?

The term "slur" is appropriate when referring to a clearly offensive and derogatory remark or term, particularly one targeting a specific group or individual based on prejudice.

What's the difference between a "slur" and a "criticism"?

A "slur" is inherently derogatory and offensive, intending to demean or insult. "Criticism", on the other hand, can be constructive and aims to point out flaws or areas for improvement without necessarily intending to cause offense.