Usage of the words retard / retarded

[ajpa123]

I know a lot of you aren't gonna agree and will butz my nutz on this one, but here goes...

I just wish that people in general would use the word correctly.
Retarded means slow, not stupid. Most people use it to refer to someone as stupid or dumb (implying slowness albeit, but could also imply lack of common sense).

Just remember that mentally challenged children are known as retarded, meaning their brain functions improperly or slower than us.
It's our social responsiblity not to hurt their, or their parents' feelings..

Just thinking out loud. Anyone agree/disagree?
FYI, i have been in contact with mentally challenged children before. (Also, i know a child with MS who is in the wheelchair stage also). That's why i feel so strongly about it.

Peace

AJ.

 

[cornbread]

The word retarded is non-specific and can be used in many situations.. The meanings of words change over the years from the original meanings... It's no longer politically correct to call someone retarded nowadays..
I hate political correctness...

 

[Gravity]

In the mental health industry we don't refer to humans as "retards" or "retarded". That word can refer, as you suggest, to mechanical actions, or sports. However, it's slightly out of fashion now. Using it in public is like the financial analyst that used "niggardly" earlier this year. He was describing a frugal approach to money management and used the word correctly. However, in this politically correct environment, he was fired promptly. You too, should be cautious with that word. In forums, perhaps, but I would hesitate to utter it in the presence of others that I was not warmly familiar with.

 

[matt426malm]

Originally posted by: cornbread
The word retarded is non-specific and can be used in many situations.. The meanings of words change over the years from the original meanings... It's no longer politically correct to call someone retarded nowadays..
I hate political correctness...

Like gay in jr high, it was the most used adjective.

 

[agnitrate]

If we used the proper definitions of half of the words in the english dictionary, we'd be boned, screwed, or f'ed. See what I mean?

-silver

 

[matt426malm]

Originally posted by: agnitrate
If we used the proper definitions of half of the words in the english dictionary, we'd be boned, screwed, or f'ed. See what I mean?

-silver

So there is no point in boning up on my grammar?

 

[MercenaryForHire]

So how many degrees should I retard my engine timing with an NX 55 wet kit?

- M4H

 

[DaWhim]

so what are you? retard or retarded?

 

Fine, I'll just call you a jackass from now on.