oa Een verkennend onderzoek naar taalverruwing

This paper consists of two parts. In the first part, an attempt will be made to define ‘rude language’ in a such way that it discerns itself from other types of negative language use. This definition uses concepts such as register, informalisation, appreciation, intensification and dysfemy. Possible problems with this definition are discussed with existing examples of ‘rude language’.

The second part of this paper explores to what extent the proposed definition can be used in empirical research. In a first survey after the effects of rude language, respondents have been asked their opinions about neutral or rude versions of (fictitious) newspaper items about political proposals. Results show that judgment is not related to personal traits such as age, gender, or political colour. Rude language does not affect the attitude towards the political proposal, but the proposing politician is perceived as less competent and attractive. Furthermore, it is judged as being less appropriate but more attractive than neutral language. This first experiment provides impetus for future research based on the proposed definition of rude language.