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From Taboo to Trend: The Evolving Role of Filipino Swear Words in Everyday Expression

Kenette Mark Berras Adarna Email , Jader Bravo Balaoro Email , Roweena Briseño Banjao Email , Jonathan Reyes Claro Email , and Melanie Bautista Valdez Email
Abstract The study explored the dynamic and shifting nature of swearing within Filipino culture. Through a qualitative-descriptive methodology, the researchers investigated the perceptions, contexts, and societal impacts of swear words, utilizing written interviews and convenience sampling to gather insights from participants. Findings revealed that swear words, once taboo, are increasingly normalized due to their representation in media such as television, movies, and social media platforms. Participants emphasized the duality of swear words, which can either foster camaraderie or provoke conflict, depending on the context and relationships between speakers. Media's role in shaping perceptions was evident, with respondents expressing concern over the desensitization caused by constant exposure to profanity. Emphasizing the need for media literacy programs to educate individuals, especially the youth, the study implicated the use of swear words and the importance of context in communication. It also recommended stricter regulations on the use of profanity in the media targeting younger audiences.
Full Text: PDF   |   DOI: https://doi.org/10.15640/jehd.v14p4
Article History:
Received: 19 July 2025 | Accepted: 2 August 2025 | Published: 16 August 2025
Reviewer(s): Rael Christopher O. Plaza, EdD, Department of Social Science, North Eastern Mindanao State University – Main Campus, Tandag City, Philippines; ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9478-2781; Phone Number: +63 9071080558.
Email: [email protected] Dr. Heng Hu, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, 310009.
Email: [email protected]
Address for Correspondence: Roweena Briseño Banjao, Mudiit, Dolores, Abra, Philippines.
Email: [email protected]
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