Explanation
A socially effective prohibition or avoidance rule governing topics, acts, or names. It reveals power at the boundaries of the sayable and in substitute forms.
Example
The name is avoided and replaced by a circumlocution.
Counterexample
Merely mentioning “Taboo” without the described function is not a sufficient example.
Distinction
Do not equate it with a narrower subtype or a merely adjacent concept; the defining function is decisive.
Effect on thought and perception
It reveals power at the boundaries of the sayable and in substitute forms.
Resonance
In the atlas, Taboo forms a node joined by 3 previously unresolved reference lines.
Etymology
Technical core term; individual etymological review pending
Provenance
Unresolved relation network → core-concept review → Metzler/HWRh cross-check → ATLAS 238
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Taboo“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-CORE-238-058. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-CORE-238-058The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.