Five Reasons Why You Shouldn't Watch Your Mouth

‘Watch your language!’ is a phrase that many of us have heard as children, or even adults (Thanks, Captain America). We know that swearing is bad, or at least we think so, but we’re still so tempted to swear. Is swearing actually as bad as we think? Perhaps not. Here’s why:

1. People who swear are honest and persuasive

   People use ‘bad’ language to express their genuine feelings, thus they cannot be dishonest. This argument doesn’t sound persuasive enough, but that’s because I didn’t use a swear word. One research identified that swearing is associated with persuasiveness. People believed the speech with a curse word more than the one without. Another study linked swearing with honesty, saying that it has a positive relationship with less deception. If that’s not convincing enough, there’s also evidence that swearing makes you cool. Well, not really, But it makes you look more outgoing and confident, as people who use swear words are characterised as more extraverted and less sexually anxious, i.e. less worried about their sexuality. 

2. Swearing is caring

   People swear around those who they feel comfortable around. If someone slips an occasional f-word in a conversation with you, the chances are: they think of you as a good friend. It might sound weird, but an experiment in New Zealand actually observed factory workers and found that cursing was used only among those that belonged to the in-group. In other words, when people are comfortable enough with each other, they can let themselves be rude and loosen their self-control, allowing people to bond with them.

3. Cursing instead of nursing

   Do you know that feeling when you hit your pinky toe on the annoying table corner? In moments like this, ‘Sugar Honey Iced Tea’ phrase may accidentally come out of your mouth. There’a good reason why you want to curse when you’re in pain. One study proved that swearing can ease physical pain. In fact, cursing improves your pain tolerance. When 64 students were asked to put their hands in ice-cold water, they lasted longer while swearing. There is a trick though: it doesn’t work if you swear regularly. Like anything good in this life, swearing should be used in moderation. 

4. It is damn funny

   Even if British stand-up is not really your cup of tea, there’s one great thing about it: it’s not censored. In States, swearing on television is stricter, so comedians have to try extra hard to impress the audience. British comedians have it easier. You may wonder why? Well, the researchers in Tilburg university found out that stand-up acts with swear words receive a greater response by the public. People find it funnier because they feel more relaxed. You may also learn irony and sarcasm by being exposed to swear words. In fact, you can increase your own sense of humour. Just don’t overdo it.

5. It is good for your mental health (and dishes)

   It is hard to watch your mouth, especially when you’re angry or excited. Swearing is an emotional response to stress, anger or excitement. So, when you’re feeling stressed, you may find it difficult to not drop the f-bomb. According to a study, you shouldn’t censor yourself when you’re mad. Cursing helps to relieve stress and lower frustration. It also means that you’re getting rid of negative emotions in a harmless way. Instead of aggressively but demonstratively slamming the door or breaking the dishes, swearing can be a more helpful (and cheaper) way to release your anger. You’re also less likely to end up in a physical fight. So, the next time someone shames you for swearing, just show them this article. But remember: swearing in front of the kids is still not cool.