Offensiveness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Offensiveness refers to the quality of causing displeasure, resentment, or insult, often due to being rude, disrespectful, or inappropriate in language, behavior, or content. It can provoke strong negative reactions.
Definition:
The quality of causing resentment, annoyance, or displeasure through insulting behavior or language.
Synonyms:
rudeness, insolence, disrespect, obnoxiousness
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
politeness, courtesy
Common Collocations:
level of offensiveness, avoid offensiveness, perceived offensiveness
Derivatives:
offensive, offensively
Usage Tips:
Use "offensiveness" to describe the impact of words or actions that upset or insult others; avoid in formal contexts if unsure.
Common Phrases:
take offense at something, cause offense to someone, beyond the pale of offensiveness
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "offendere," meaning "to strike against," via Old French "offensif."
Examples:
- 1. His joke's offensiveness upset many people.
- 2. The article's offensiveness led to complaints.
- 3. She apologized for the offensiveness of her remarks.
- 4. The film’s offensiveness sparked debates online.