Each generation has its own unique collection of slang and catchphrases. Some familiar expressions that previously flowed naturally from our mouths? They don’t feel right today. As time passes language develops and phrases that once sounded harmless now feel different. In this list, we’re going to explore 12 phrases from the boomer era that were once normal but would certainly shock people today.
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“That’s So Gay”
This expression was commonly used to describe something lame or weird during school hallway chats or even TV broadcasts. Let’s face it—using someone’s identity as an insult? Not okay. After people began to speak up against it the phrase became widely recognized as intolerable and thoughtless.
“Indian Giver”
This one is messy. The term described a person who gives a gift and then takes it back – it originated from harmful stereotypes about Native Americans. This expression is both factually incorrect and insulting. It should definitely join the list of outdated and unacceptable phrases.
“Pickaninny”
Yikes. Old cartoons and media used this term to describe Black children in a deeply dehumanizing way. The term shows blatant racism, which cannot be justified today. You will hear this expression either when learning about history or when someone has made a serious error.
“Chinaman”
Historically this term casually identified Chinese men but today it’s considered offensive. The term feels outdated and projects that weird, stereotypical tone. Just ask the person’s name and use it.
“Calling a Spade a Spade”
This one’s tricky. This phrase initially meant “being straightforward” or “saying things as they are,” but in some parts of the world, especially in the U.S., “spade” was also used as a racial slur. Even though the phrase wasn’t originally designed to offend, the dual meanings now cause discomfort.
“Gyp” / “I Got Gypped”
Have you ever used this expression without knowing that it’s offensive? The word is an abbreviation of “Gypsy,” which is an offensive label for Romani people. The term labels them unfairly as either thieves or scammers and creates a negative stereotype. A better swap? Just say “ripped off” or “scammed.”
“That’s Retarded”
People frequently used this phrase to refer to things that were “dumb” or “slow,” but today we understand it’s inappropriate. Calling something “retarded” is cruel because it uses language linked to intellectual disabilities as an insult. Thankfully most people no longer use the term. If you still do it’s time to stop.
“Uppity”
This one has a nasty background. In the South, this word described Black people who exhibited too much confidence or acted outside of white expectations. Today, it still carries those racist undertones. Best to leave it behind entirely.
“Eskimo”
Many people from the Boomer generation became familiar with this word through books and vintage National Geographic publications. In Canada and Alaska, this term is currently viewed as offensive. The term Inuit is more respectful although using the specific group name is even better if it’s known to you.
“Girl” When Talking About Grown Women
Referring to a 35-year-old woman as “the girl at work” looks unprofessional and inappropriate. At first glance, it seems fine but this term undermines women and makes them sound less competent and professional. Most people today use “woman” or they simply use the person’s title or name.
“No Homo”
The phrase rose to popularity during the early 2000s after being used by younger Boomers and Gen Xers. People would compliment a guy and then follow up with “no homo” to make sure everyone knew they weren’t gay. The phrase suggests that homosexuality represents a problem. The term has become obsolete because people recognize that it is inappropriate.
“The White Man’s Burden”
Historically people used this concept to support colonization by claiming white Europeans had to “civilize” other cultures. Schools taught students these concepts under the pretense that they were beneficial. We now fully understand its true nature as both racist and insulting. The phrase indicates that different cultures are inferior while failing to recognize the damage caused by colonization.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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