Why are certain words and phrases deemed offensive? How can language reveal prejudice and discrimination, even if not intended? Through identifying and analyzing offensive language, from explicit insults to more hidden discriminatory terms, this book uncovers the reasons behind how and why words can offend.

Why do certain words have the power to offend? This book sheds light on prejudice in language, past and present.

'I don't think there is any more difficult topic in present-day language study than the vocabulary of offence. Karen Stollznow has done us all a great service in bringing together the largest collection of usages I have ever seen, in all the main areas of linguistic prejudice, and treating them in an enlightened, informative, and sensitive manner. It will help anyone who has ever offended others or been offended by a use of language - which means all of us.' David Crystal, University of Wales, Bangor