Under normal circumstances I wouldn’t use the word ass in a paper, but in this case I’m referencing a play (The Clouds, Aristophanes). It’s not a direct quotation and I’m not sure that ass is really appropriate for a formal paper. Alternatives like butt, bottom, or rear all seem somewhat awkward (and maybe a tiny bit childish). What should I do?
@Sleep4days I would use a better word like “bottom” or “buttocks,” especially since you’re not directly quoting someone.
If it’s considered a swear word, it’s not formal.
If it’s the right kind of paper, you might be able to work in a sort of playful tone and use “rear” or “backside.” It might be safest to see if you can find a way to use a direct quote, though.
I’d probably use “donkey” or “mule.”
Use “Alpha-Sierra-Sierra”
Why not be formal and use a direct quotation?
I would evaluate my choice this way…what is the risk-reward. What is to be gained by using the coarser term? Weigh that against the potential loss of using it. There are variables none of us can know…who is the audience, etc. At the end of the day, I would avoid using it unless it is a quote (even then, I would probably find another quote).
If you’re not using a quote from a translation of the play, definitely don’t use ass (and certainly there are translations out there that don’t use the word either). I would consider buttocks to be the most formal term and thus most appropriate for an application essay. Rump could be acceptable too if you’re talking about an animal.