🤐 Politically Correct: How to Master the Art of Diplomacy 🙊
Politically Correct – Avoidance of speaking or behaving in a way that would offend anyone’s sensibilities concerning race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic levels, or politics. Surprisingly, this cliché of the latter twentieth century, well known enough to be sometimes abbreviated as P.C., was used in 1793 by J. Wilson in the U.S. House of Representatives: “‘The United States,’ instead of the ‘People of the United States,’ is the toast given. This is not politically correct” (cited by the OED). Presumably Mr. Wilson here was referring to precision in political language.
The current meaning of the phrase did not surface until the mid-1900s and was a cliché by the 1990s. The negative, politically incorrect, is also sometimes used. A letter to the editor of the Chicago Daily Herald, writing about the proposed building of a Muslim mosque near ground zero in New York City, said, “Is it not ‘politically incorrect’ for a Muslim mosque to be built in this area?” (Georgene Beazley, August 21, 2010). And a character discussing a possible suspect, “Just keep an eye on him. These guys usually screw up. Most of them don’t think what they’re doing is wrong, just politically incorrect” (Nevada Barr, Burn, 2010).
Related Expressions
- Walk on eggshells: To be careful in communication to avoid controversy.
- Sensitive to: Being considerate of other people’s feelings.
- Call a spade a spade: Speak frankly and directly about a subject, risking potential offense.
- Speak the truth boldly: To be frank and truthful, regardless of the repercussions.
Synonyms
- Diplomatic
- Tactful
- Cautious
- Inclusive
- Considerate
Antonyms
- Politically incorrect
- Blunt
- Insensitive
- Indifferent
Inspirational Quotes ✨
“Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions.” – Winston Churchill
“To know what is right and not do it is the want of courage.” – Confucius
Recommended Reading 📚
- How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- Words Are Important by Lewis Carroll
- Politically Correct Bedtime Stories by James Finn Garner
Movies & Shows 🎬
- Miss Congeniality - A humorous look at the transformation of a blunt, tomboyish cop into a polished beauty pageant contender.
- The Office (U.S.) - Highlights the often absurd attempts at political correctness in a corporate setting.
Music 🎼
- “Imagine” by John Lennon - A call for a world of mutual respect and understanding.
- “We Are The World” by USA for Africa - An anthem promoting global awareness and unity.
Can You Spot the Correct Idiom?
Farewell Thought 💭: Always remember, words are powerful. They can hurt, heal, and even inspire revolutions. As you explore idioms and expressions, handle them with care and explore the richness they bring to our language. 🌟
(Signed)
E. L. Emoticon
October 10, 2023
