<p>Hi there!
In my personal statement I would like to use the word “slut,” to describe how the word is often (unjustly) used to describe women. However, there have been concerns that it is too profane. Any advice?</p>
<p>If your whole essay is about the word “slut” and its improper use, pick a new topic.
If not, use the word “whore” or “prostitute.” But don’t make any of these words the main focus of the essay.</p>
<p>But isn’t whore just as provocative?</p>
<p>Slut has a different meaning than whore or prostitute, though. </p>
<p>What’s the context?</p>
<p>I personally think the appropriateness will depend on your writing style. If you are used to writing slightly provocatively, “slut” probably won’t faze the reader. But if you think it could potentially turn someone off from your writing, I say take it out.</p>
<p>The context would let “slut” and “whore” being used synonymously, but not “prostitute.”</p>
<p>I think the context still determines whether using either word would be appropriate. Slut, to me, sounds more like a word a teenager would say, while whore, while technically a little stronger/more vulgar, is more of an adult/formal term. Have you considered the words harlot and strumpet? Those are great words, and not as provocative. (Though they do mean a literal prostitute, I think they can mean slut as well.) And, uh, I’ve used them in a presentation for an english class, though only because they were in the book we were reading. </p>
<p>Still, I think if you were to use slut or whore ONCE in the proper context could have a big emotional impact and wouldn’t be too inappropriate.</p>
<p>I think I get what you are saying SeaLion… If you could give us the sentence where it was used it would be helpful, but I say use it in a way that disconnects you from its use; like putting it in “” or saying: words such as “slut,” “whore,” etc. are commonly used in today’s society blah blah blah…</p>
<p>I think it is okay to use, as described in your first post and as commented upon by clienk and kurtin.</p>
<p>Totally, go for it, BUT make sure you use it in a professional way, if you know what I mean. As long as the TONE of your overall essay is mature, it will not matter.</p>
<p>You could use slattern. It is a more olde way of saying it. I like it better.</p>
<p>Or “hussy.”</p>