Explanation
When an expression is considered offensive, dangerous, sacred, or unspeakable, euphemisms and substitute terms emerge. These, too, may later become taboo themselves.
Example
Over time, a euphemistic substitute term acquires the negative connotation of the avoided expression.
Counterexample
A neutral shift in meaning without social avoidance is not a shift in taboo.
Distinction
Distinguish this from the euphemism as an individual expressive strategy; taboo shift describes the historical dynamic.
Effect on thought and perception
Reveals how social attitudes impart meanings to words and cyclically renew terminology.
Resonance
What is avoided remains present in the substitute term as invisible pressure.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Taboo shift“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-103-024. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-103-024The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.