by Jan Wright

Created on: May 28, 2009   Last Updated: May 30, 2009

When someone uses "retard," or "retarded," the context must be examined as well as to whom they are using these words . They are usually describing something or someone who is acting abnormal or lacks knowledge or wisdom. This makes the slang quite offensive. This reason, coupled with the tone that it is used in makes the word an inappropriate adjective.

Yes, in music, the word "Retardando," means "to play slowly." Yes, the word "retard," means to slow down. A sentence where this might be acceptable is: "not only do pesticides kill the bugs, but they retard the growth of the plant." No one would object to the word as it is used here. It is objectionable when it is used to demean a person or action. In fact, most times when people use it, they are suggesting that their person, actions and/or ability is superior over someone else's. It describes someone who is making a foolish or nonsensical decision. In this way, the word carries quite a bit of judgment. This is not the intended use of the word. If you still have doubt, then examine the tone in which it is used. Most often it is in a tone meant to hurt others. The inflection suggests that you are better than the person who has been saddled with that particular label. It certainly is not something that one would strive to attain. However, slang has rendered it an offensive word. If the word would be used as it was intended, to mean "delayed or slow," then, there would be no objection to its use. However, since it has been used as a term to belittle someone's intellect and/or actions, then, yes, it is as inappropriate as other belittling slang is. It certainly judges and discriminates, just as much as the words "ho" or "wetback." Someone is not simply saying: "you are foolish," or "You have lost your common sense." You are making a connection between the person that you are talking to and all of the unwanted characteristics possessed by the mentally challenged. Of course, there are times when this word is and can be used. However, since most people don't use their words wisely and have no clue about their effect, this word holds the power of not only discriminating between those who do and who do not have intelligence, but makes those who do not fall into the former category feel like less of a person. For this reason, it should not be used to describe people and/or the actions of people. I am sure that more appropriate words can be found.

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