NationStates Jolt Archive

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "USian." I recognize that Canada and Mexico are also part of North America, and that the continent of South America exists. I agree that anyone, from either continent, could reasonably claim to be "American." When better terminology arises, tradition be damned! My thanks to whoever coined the term, "USian." Certainly, some people may try to use it derogatorily, just as some conservative pundits in the US use "French." I consider them pig-headed, no offense intended to pigs. Why is the use of "USian" even an issue?

And in case you have sigs off,
Language is a filter which distorts our perceptions. In order to truly experience reality, one must transcend language.

Nice idealism, but...ah...how to put this delicately...duck.

This brings back fond memories.

Probably for the same reason why people from Sweden would get upset if I called them "Swedish Meatballs" even though I loved swedish meatballs.

I think most people get annoyed when you call them by something other than what they want to be called.

Don't you agree, Smedley?

Adding "ian" to an acronym to make it into a nationality seems silly.

Is USian pronounced United Statesian, United Stasian, or "Yoo-essian"?

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "faggot."

Is USian pronounced United Statesian, United Stasian, or "Yoo-essian"?

"Yoo-essian".

Adding "ian" to an acronym to make it into a nationality seems silly.
How is it more silly than calling us "American"?

Merkin :p

And to turn this around: I sometimes wonder if most US citizens realise that people from Canada, Mexico, Chile, Suriname, Brasil and so on have every right to call themselves "Americans" as well.

"Yoo-essian".

/agree

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "faggot."
I think it depends on if you intend to set them ablaze.

"USian" implies a "USia", which would mean "land of the USs". Pray tell, who are these "USs"?

Merkin :p

And to turn this around: I sometimes wonder if most US citizens realise that people from Canada, Mexico, Chile, Suriname, Brasil and so on have every right to call themselves "Americans" as well.

Well that's up to them, though it would be somewhat confusing. In our defense, we were calling ourselves that first so we get dibs. :tongue:

Do people from Spain consider themselves European or Spanish?

I think it depends on if you intend to set them ablaze.

Why? Language is a filter which distorts our perceptions. In order to truly experience reality, one must transcend language.

Do people from Spain consider themselves European or Spanish?

They are allowed to consider themselves as both. And as Terrans/Earthlings as well even - an honour Americans share ;)

"USian" implies a "USia", which would mean "land of the USs". Pray tell, who are these "USs"?

What would be a better term? I am dissatisfied with the inaccuracy of "American," and find "USian" servicable, but I'm open to suggestions.

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "USian." I recognize that Canada and Mexico are also part of North America, and that the continent of South America exists. I agree that anyone, from either continent, could reasonably claim to be "American." When better terminology arises, tradition be damned! My thanks to whoever coined the term, "USian." Certainly, some people may try to use it derogatorily, just as some conservative pundits in the US use "French." I consider them pig-headed, no offense intended to pigs. Why is the use of "USian" even an issue?

And in case you have sigs off,
Language is a filter which distorts our perceptions. In order to truly experience reality, one must transcend language.All irrelevant. 'American' sounds better, so use something that's at least vaguely aesthetically (Aurally, really) pleasing. Everyone knows what you mean, regardless of the presence of other countries (Which do not call themselves 'America', anyway) on the continents, or indeed, the continents themselves.

Why? Language is a filter which distorts our perceptions. In order to truly experience reality, one must transcend language.
Mu.

How is it more silly than calling us "American"?

Because it is an acronym. Sure the term "American" is inaccurate, but so is "pedophile"; do you complain about that?

I just hope that if the European Union becomes one government, we do not start calling its citizens "EUians".

I just hope that if the European Union becomes one government, we do not start calling its citizens "EUians".A most excellent point, and quoted accordingly.

All irrelevant. 'American' sounds better, so use something that's at least vaguely aesthetically (Aurally, really) pleasing. Everyone knows what you mean, regardless of the presence of other countries (Which do not call themselves 'America', anyway) on the continents, or indeed, the continents themselves.
Not irrelevant, but I am willing to entertain suggestions other than "USian" to replace "American." It's like saying all communists are socialists.

A most excellent point, and quoted accordingly.

Silence, Earthling !

Because it is an acronym. Sure the term "American" is inaccurate, but so is "pedophile"; do you complain about that?

I just hope that if the European Union becomes one government, we do not start calling its citizens "EUians".
So, suggest an alternate.

Not irrelevant, but I am willing to entertain suggestions other than "USian" to replace "American." It's like saying all communists are socialists.

"We, The People".

Not irrelevant, but I am willing to entertain suggestions other than "USian" to replace "American." It's like saying all communists are socialists.

Or we could just leave it the same.

"We, The People". Not bad, but confusing, since most aboriginal North American tribes call themselves, "the People."

This brings back fond memories.

I read through parts of that thread last night, and yes, it sure does.

So, suggest an alternate.

Pedoerotic.

Or we could just leave it the same. But it is inaccurate. Traditional usage is not an excuse for ignorance.

Merkin :p

And to turn this around: I sometimes wonder if most US citizens realise that people from Canada, Mexico, Chile, Suriname, Brasil and so on have every right to call themselves "Americans" as well.

Actually the Mexicans are USians as well. It's the Estados Unidos Mexicanos. ;) Mexican United States.

Maybe we could call the citizens of the United States of America "USAians" and the citizens of the United States of Mexico "EUMians". Or "NUSians" (for the more northernly US, that is USA) and "SUSians" (for the more southernly US, that is EUM).
What a mess.

Anyway, in Italian we use "statunitense" when we want to refer specifically to a US citizen, as opposed to other "americani".

Pedoerotic. Excellent! Although I doubt it applies to all US citizens.

Is USAmerican acceptable?

But it is inaccurate. Traditional usage is not an excuse for ignorance.

There are countless words in the English language that are used inaccurately. Do you intend on changing customary use of them all?

But it is inaccurate. Traditional usage is not an excuse for ignorance.

Then start using the word "nice" properly (only meaning discriminating, clean, or fussy).

Not bad, but confusing, since most aboriginal North American tribes call themselves, "the People."

True - but what is the actual problem ?

Citizens of the USA ARE Americans. They're just not the only ones who are, just like the Dutch are not the only Europeans.

But if the citizens of the USA wish to identify themself in such a manner - why not ? Let them trancend nationalism - and one day they may even truly speak of "Terrans" ;)

Then start using the word "nice" properly (only meaning discriminating, clean, or fussy).
Nice distinction.

True - but what is the actual problem ?

Citizens of the USA ARE Americans. They're just not the only ones who are, just like the Dutch are not the only Europeans.

But if the citizens of the USA wish to identify themself in such a manner - why not ? Let them trancend nationalism - and one day they may even truly speak of "Terrans" ;) When all citizens of the US transcend nationalism, fine. Til then, I think it's confusing.

USonian.

FLW!

There are countless words in the English language that are used inaccurately. Do you intend on changing customary use of them all?

"Obnoxious" actually means "exposed to danger".

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "USian." I recognize that Canada and Mexico are also part of North America, and that the continent of South America exists. I agree that anyone, from either continent, could reasonably claim to be "American." When better terminology arises, tradition be damned! My thanks to whoever coined the term, "USian." Certainly, some people may try to use it derogatorily, just as some conservative pundits in the US use "French." I consider them pig-headed, no offense intended to pigs. Why is the use of "USian" even an issue?

true, while you think it's silly for someone to be offended by being called a USian. it's forcing an unwanted lable onto someone. I know people who prefer 'Black' over 'African American', 'Colored Person' over 'Person of Color' and so forth. should I ignore their preference because I believe that one label is 'better' than what those who are being labeled think?

Why are you making this into an issue?

USonian.

FLW!

How about Usian?

I'll get the butt plugs, since you people have decided again that you love getting anal...

Not irrelevant, but I am willing to entertain suggestions other than "USian" to replace "American." It's like saying all communists are socialists.I asked 4chan. Lets see...

true, while you think it's silly for someone to be offended by being called a USian. it's forcing an unwanted lable onto someone. I know people who prefer 'Black' over 'African American', 'Colored Person' over 'Person of Color' and so forth. should I ignore their preference because I believe that one label is 'better' than what those who are being labeled think?

Why are you making this into an issue? Because some people seem more interested in being offended than being constructive, and that offends me :eek2:

When all citizens of the US transcend nationalism, fine. Til then, I think it's confusing.

Fair enough then. Let me see.

"Sammies" (quite like this one)
"Men from UNCLE"
"United Statesmen" (though that has the aforementioned problem that there are multiple united states on this planet)

The aforementioned Merkin is a tad bit too insulting, due to the meaning of the word.

And to turn this around: I sometimes wonder if most US citizens realise that people from Canada, Mexico, Chile, Suriname, Brasil and so on have every right to call themselves "Americans" as well.

Ah... but do they?

Is USAmerican acceptable?
That's what it's in German. US-Amerikaner, US-amerikanisch, etc. Only in colloquial usage will people leave out the "US" part.

When I was new to NSG (the first English-language political forum I'd been on) I *hated* people just going on about Americans this, American that.
Accordingly, I'm somewhat annoyed with myself for having gotten used to it and using it in the way (US-)Americans use it, now. Curse you, NSG.

Edit: Forgot to say, d'oh: I never used "USAmerican" because it looks way wrong & I've only seen it more recently. I always thought there was no English version of "US-Amerikaner".

Is USAmerican acceptable?
Ah, Thank you! I can add a poll!

Ah... but do they?

Actually, yes. Though they tend to not use the English word "American" of course. Speaking Spanish/Portugese/etc does that.

Because some people seem more interested in being offended than being constructive, and that offends me :eek2:

yet, if they find something offensive in what you call them, why persist in calling them that which they find offensive? to continue to do so, especially when one let's it known that they find the label offensive, will only show that the person using the label has stopped being constuctive and now just being offensive.

"USian" implies a "USia", which would mean "land of the USs". Pray tell, who are these "USs"?

australians, australia, land of the australs?

i don't think that's how it works.

Actually, yes. Though they tend to not use the English word "American" of course. Speaking Spanish/Portugese/etc does that.

but they reserve the ENGLISH word 'American' to what usage?

That's what it's in German. US-Amerikaner, US-amerikanisch, etc. Only in colloquial usage will people leave out the "US" part.

When I was new to NSG (the first English-language political forum I'd been on) I *hated* people just going on about Americans this, American that.
Accordingly, I'm somewhat annoyed with myself for having gotten used to it and using it in the way (US-)Americans use it, now. Curse you, NSG.

Edit: Forgot to say, d'oh: I never used "USAmerican" because it looks way wrong & I've only seen it more recently. I always thought there was no English version of "US-Amerikaner".

Ahhhh. Cabra West recently used USAmerican and TAI got all pissy about it. I hadn't noticed the term before, but when I went back to some old USian threads, and even previous to that, like back in 05 or so, she was using it then too.

If USAmerican is okay, what is so bad about shortening it to USian for ease of typing? I mean it's not like we don't shorten other words, like gov't, ffs.

yet, if they find something offensive in what you call them, why persist in calling them that which they find offensive? to continue to do so, especially when one let's it known that they find the label offensive, will only show that the person using the label has stopped being constuctive and now just being offensive. But I'm one of "them," and I think they're being irresponsible by being offended by something I find quite useful.

I prefer the term "US American". USian sounds stupid and leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

but they reserve the ENGLISH word 'American' to what usage?

They don't use it at all ?
As mentioned in this topic, many countries have localised words for "Americans" in the meaning of "citizens of the USA". America tends to refer to the continents.

Ahhhh. Cabra West recently used USAmerican and TAI got all pissy about it. I hadn't noticed the term before, but when I went back to some old USian threads, and even previous to that, like back in 05 or so, she was using it then too.

If USAmerican is okay, what is so bad about shortening it to USian for ease of typing? I mean it's not like we don't shorten other words, like gov't, ffs.

Ah, so it is in fact NOT English after all? I thought you were using it as an actually existing English word.

And yeah, Cabra uses USAmerican, probably for exactly that German-rooted reason.

I prefer the term "US American". USian sounds stupid and leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
That looks much better than USAmerican. Please tell me it's an actual word.

I am not offended I just know USian is not a word.
If you unable to tell by the context of the sentence and paragraph who the author is referring to, with the term American, then you are too stupid to be on the internet.

That looks much better than USAmerican. Please tell me it's an actual word.

Honey, I barely speak English. If it's a word or not a word I don't know.

I don't find "U.S.ian" offensive, just retarded. "U.S.American" sounds fine.

Honey, I barely speak English. If it's a word or not a word I don't know.
http://generalitemafia.ipbfree.com/html/emoticons/tongue.gif

I prefer the term "US American". USian sounds stupid and leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
I'm willing to go with "US American," or "USAmerican," although neither is as quick and easy to type.

I'm willing to go with "US American," or "USAmerican," although neither is as quick and easy to type.

USer? it's funny because we consume more than we produce

But I'm one of "them," and I think they're being irresponsible by being offended by something I find quite useful.

ah, I see. so your point of view is more important than anyone else.

Your comfort level is more important than other people's comfort. because YOU find it quite useful, what other's think is irresponsible and thus irrelevant.

They don't use it at all ?
As mentioned in this topic, many countries have localised words for "Americans" in the meaning of "citizens of the USA". America tends to refer to the continents.

yet, even in terms of continents. it's NORTH America. so tecnically, it's not Americans, but North Americans. which is more accurate and more useful than referring everyone on the continent as 'Americans'.

That looks much better than USAmerican. Please tell me it's an actual word. It's actually 3 words, two of them abbreviated, but it is accurate, if unshort.

USer? it's funny because we consume more than we produce
Wow! even shorter than "USian"! We may have a thread-winner!

ah, I see. so your point of view is more important than anyone else.

Your comfort level is more important than other people's comfort. because YOU find it quite useful, what other's think is irresponsible and thus irrelevant.
Whatever, J-man. At least I'm entertaining other options :p

USer? it's funny because we consume more than we produce

lol

I've noticed a lot of people using the term Merkin, which in my mind is specifically used in a tongue-in-cheek manner, even by myself...why aren't people getting all pissy about that?

lol

I've noticed a lot of people using the term Merkin, which in my mind is specifically used in a tongue-in-cheek manner, even by myself...why aren't people getting all pissy about that?
'Cause most of us USers need 'em thse days. We shave ;)

Yossarians?

Wow! even shorter than "USian"! We may have a thread-winner!

If you think "American" is bad because it ignores most of the continents, you must also oppose USer, since it does not mention *which* United States you are referring to.

And why was "Gringos" not mentioned :p ?

Yossarians? An intelligent subclass of the citizenry ;)

yet, even in terms of continents. it's NORTH America. so tecnically, it's not Americans, but North Americans. which is more accurate and more useful than referring everyone on the continent as 'Americans'.

The Americas. You don't go "ok I want to talk about North America, South America and maybe Central America if that's how you've learned to divide things up in school, and um is the Carribbean included? I suppose, so yes. North, South, Central America and the Carribbean. That's what I'm going to talk about."

The Americas works much better. Not to mention, when people say North Americans, they quite often erroneously leave out Mexico (and the rest of 'central America' once again depending on how you've been taught to divide up the continents).

If you think "American" is bad because it ignores most of the continents, you must also oppose USer, since it does not mentioned *which* United States you are referring to.

And why was "Gringos" not mentioned :p ?
Ut oh, good point. "USAer"?

What about "Canada's Poops"?

What about "Canada's Poops"?

You are back. :D

lol

I've noticed a lot of people using the term Merkin, which in my mind is specifically used in a tongue-in-cheek manner, even by myself...why aren't people getting all pissy about that?
Do you know what a merkin is? I do. I am not one.

OH yeah! I forgot I was just a lurker now. Damn it!

Or is it lurkerian?

What about "Canada's Poops"?

I thought you'd left?

If you think "American" is bad because it ignores most of the continents, you must also oppose USer, since it does not mention *which* United States you are referring to.

And why was "Gringos" not mentioned :p ?

Or Yanquis (Yankees, Yanks)? Well, that'd irritate the South, but I stand in solid favor of things that irritate the South.

Maybe, for our more obnoxious citizens, US-holes.

"One nation, under Canada, above Mexico."

I got an idea. Lets just transliterate the Chinese word for Americans.
meiren translates to Beautiful people. I rather like it.

Do you know what a merkin is? I do. I am not one.Yes, I do, which is why I think it so odd that people aren't all up in arms about that term, while they are content to bitch about USian, which is not the name of false pubic hair.

The Americas. You don't go "ok I want to talk about North America, South America and maybe Central America if that's how you've learned to divide things up in school, and um is the Carribbean included? I suppose, so yes. North, South, Central America and the Carribbean. That's what I'm going to talk about." ah, but the point is 'Americans' referres to anyone residing in the American continents.

and yes. Carribbeans are a reference to people from the Carribeans.

The Americas works much better. Not to mention, when people say North Americans, they quite often erroneously leave out Mexico (and the rest of 'central America' once again depending on how you've been taught to divide up the continents).
which is not an argument for the use of 'Americans' to referre to people from the continents called the Americas.

and technically, Mexicans can refer themselves as North Americans and Central Americans. since CI is trying to divide people by their geographical features and not by their nation.

but that does not touch upon the fact that if someone finds a term insulting, should others continue to use that term in that seemingly insulting manner?

I remember once you told me you found the term 'native american' (or was that indian?) insulting/incorrect. from that point on, I refrained from such usage because my objective was to carry on a meaningful dialogue and not cause a confrontation that would derail the conversation... should I go back to using an insulting terminology because I feel it's 'better'?

Or Yanquis (Yankees, Yanks)? Well, that'd irritate the South, but I stand in solid favor of things that irritate the South.

Maybe, for our more obnoxious citizens, US-holes.

:fluffle:

I got an idea. Lets just transliterate the Chinese word for Americans.
meiren translates to Beautiful people. I rather like it.

Apparently their word for English translates to hero people, so we win.

*Basks in Chinese glory*

Haha Intangelon. God how I missed... some of you. :D

I prefer the term America(n), because it's what I've grown up with. There's only one nation that has the work America in their name, so shortening the United States of America to America is (IMO) accurate.

ah, but the point is 'Americans' referres to anyone residing in the American continents.

and yes. Carribbeans are a reference to people from the Carribeans.


which is not an argument for the use of 'Americans' to referre to people from the continents called the Americas.

and technically, Mexicans can refer themselves as North Americans and Central Americans. since CI is trying to divide people by their geographical features and not by their nation.

but that does not touch upon the fact that if someone finds a term insulting, should others continue to use that term in that seemingly insulting manner?

I remember once you told me you found the term 'native american' (or was that indian?) insulting/incorrect. from that point on, I refrained from such usage because my objective was to carry on a meaningful dialogue and not cause a confrontation that would derail the conversation... should I go back to using an insulting terminology because I feel it's 'better'?
I asked a question earlier. Is USAmerican okay?

Because I am not going to use the term American. Sorry. Not going to do it. My English has become too international, and I am too used to thinking in more than one language for that term to sit right with me.

As for your reasoning for getting all offended, it seems rather forced, just like it always has.

Apparently their word for English translates to hero people, so we win.

*Basks in Chinese glory*

But there is no issue with what to Call Englishmen.

Yes, I do, which is why I think it so odd that people aren't all up in arms about that term, while they are content to bitch about USian, which is not the name of false pubic hair.

Because unlike "USian," the other word doesn't sound retarded.

I just figure, that if people are going to be offended, then they need something offensive to get offended over.

USian is offensive? Really?

I'm a proud USian too. If there are certain people who actually get offended over the word, then I will use 'US American' out of courtesy but I will lose respect for them :P

I don't fraking care. Better than "gringo."

Is USAmerican okay?

Yes.

I don't fraking care. Better than "gringo."

I don't mind "gringo."

Because unlike "USian," the other word doesn't sound retarded.Merkin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merkin) doesn't sound retarded? It's making fun of the stereotypical 'southern' accent.

I could just use the Cree word, kihci-môhkomân, big-knife. Except you probably won't know what I mean when I say big-knife, while all of you understand exactly what we're talking about when we say USian.

I don't see the problem with you folks saying 'American' while we say 'USian'. We're still communicating.

Merkin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merkin) doesn't sound retarded? It's making fun of the stereotypical 'southern' accent.

I could just use the Cree word, kihci-môhkomân, big-knife. Except you probably won't know what I mean when I say big-knife, while all of you understand exactly what we're talking about when we say USian.

I don't see the problem with you folks saying 'American' while we say 'USian'. We're still communicating.

Nothing sounds as retarded as "USian." If you don't believe me, try saying "USian" aloud, and hear for yourself just how ridiculous it sounds.

I don't mind "gringo."

That's what my South American grandmother used to call me ;)

While it is certainly ambiguous, American is still the correct term, since that's what the citizens of the US decided to call their country. You just have to rely on context to determine what the word is referring to.

Such an ambiguities are quite common when speaking English (and probably most other languages). If you want to remove ambiguity from the English language, you're taking on a big project.

Nothing sounds as retarded as "USian." If you don't believe me, try saying "USian" aloud, and hear for yourself just how ridiculous it sounds.

UKian sounds worse.

Merkin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merkin) doesn't sound retarded? It's making fun of the stereotypical 'southern' accent.

And making fun of the South is always good.

I could just use the Cree word, kihci-môhkomân, big-knife.

That would be fucking brutal. I think you should start.

UKian sounds worse.

I stand corrected.

Haha Intangelon. God how I missed... some of you. :D

Well, spend more time at the range. You'll hit us all, eventually. ;)

:fluffle:

Back atcha, sweetness! :fluffle:

I use "USAn", pronouncing it "OOsan"...

But there is no issue with what to Call Englishmen.

Brit. (I asked one; he said it's perfectly acceptable.)

USian sounds just fine spoken aloud. You-ess-ian.

And frankly, like it or not, I think it has caught on quite well. There are any number of USians who use the term themselves now. No rolling back the clock on this one (http://www.google.ca/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4GWYE_enCA261CA261&q=USian), baby.

USian sounds just fine spoken aloud.

And frankly, like it or not, I think it has caught on quite well. There are any number of USians who use the term themselves now. No rolling back the clock on this one (http://www.google.ca/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4GWYE_enCA261CA261&q=USian), baby.

Isn't it politically incorrect to call someone something they wish not to be called?

Isn't it politically incorrect to call someone something they wish not to be called?

Apparently not, I guess it is acceptable to go back to calling Native Americans "Redskins".

Apparently not, I guess it is acceptable to go back to calling Native Americans "Redskins".

Not really. One term is actually racist. Guess which?

USian sounds just fine spoken aloud. You-ess-ian.

It sounds stupid, IMO.

And frankly, like it or not, I think it has caught on quite well.

I have never seen or heard it used outside of this forum.

No rolling back the clock on this one (http://www.google.ca/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4GWYE_enCA261CA261&q=USian), baby.

I'm seeing a lot of misspelt results for Usain Bolt, not much on USian.

Urban Dictionary is wrong anyway. It isn't a recent term. It's over 100 years old.

Apparently not, I guess it is acceptable to go back to calling Native Americans "Redskins".

Well, I mean seriously.

Although, I live in North America so I am American and if you won't call me that I can call you an idiot right? Since you don't know what continent the U.S.A. is on?

Isn't it politically incorrect to call someone something they wish not to be called?

If someone doesn't like to be called USian when I talk to them one-on-one, I will politely accede to that preference. Of course that's the right thing to do. On a thread addressed to multiple people, designed to facilitate discussion and debate (for that matter), I'm not held to that standard.

Isn't it politically incorrect to call someone something they wish not to be called?

I'd say it's also pretty rude to force someone to use a term they don't want to. So if it's going to be 'call us American or nothing', then we are at an impasse, as I won't. So far, USAmerican has been suggested as an alternative...any others you can think of?

I'd say it's also pretty rude to force someone to use a term they don't want to. So if it's going to be 'call us American or nothing', then we are at an impasse, as I won't. So far, USAmerican has been suggested as an alternative...any others you can think of?
What if I only like saying ******?

OH FFS THERE'S A WORD FILTER ON N.I.GGER? WHAT THE FUCK?!

Well, I mean seriously.

Although, I live in North America so I am American and if you won't call me that I can call you an idiot right? Since you don't know what continent the U.S.A. is on?

Many Central & South American spanish speakers call USians norteamericanos. Seems they can be accurate.

What if I only like saying ******?

Read my post again. If it's "American or nothing" then you're not actually trying.

USAn?

Well, I mean seriously.

Although, I live in North America so I am American and if you won't call me that I can call you an idiot right? Since you don't know what continent the U.S.A. is on?

Sure I do, North America.

Urban Dictionary is wrong anyway. It isn't a recent term. It's over 100 years old.

Proof?

If someone doesn't like to be called USian when I talk to them one-on-one, I will politely accede to that preference. Of course that's the right thing to do. On a thread addressed to multiple people, designed to facilitate discussion and debate (for that matter), I'm not held to that standard.

Of course not, however if someone personally tells you they don't like it and you continue.....you're being an ass right?

For the record, I don't mind US American or USAmerican. USian pisses me off for reasons I can't quite pinpoint.

Names for US citizens
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_words_for_American

Let's go for a compromise and just call 'em Yanks. Or Septics, if you like rhyming slang.

I'd say it's also pretty rude to force someone to use a term they don't want to.

I don't want to call niggers black, I don't want to call chinks Chinese, etc. See where that argument falls down?

Of course not, however if someone personally tells you they don't like it and you continue.....you're being an ass right?

For the record, I don't mind US American or USAmerican. USian pisses me off for reasons I can't quite pinpoint.

Wow, that's compelling.

Wow, that's compelling.
Not really. I'm often quite irrational.

Not really. One term is actually racist. Guess which?

But why is it considered racist?
One need not accept Harjo’s unfounded claim that the word redskin
“had its origins in the practice of presenting bloody red skins and scalps
as proof of Indian kill for bounty payments” to accept that many find the
word objectionable in current use. But the actual origin of the word is entirely
benign and reflects more positive aspects of relations between Indians
and whites. It emerged at a specific time in history among a small group of
men linked by joint activities that provided the context that brought it forth.

Source (warning: PDF) (http://anthropology.si.edu/goddard/redskin.pdf)

Proof?

H. L. Mencken collected a number of alternate terms from between 1789 and 1939 for the December 1947 issue of American Speech; according to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of English Usage, the list includes, in relative historical sequence, "such terms as Columbian, Columbard, Fredonian, Frede, Unisian, United Statesian, Colonican, Appalacian, Usian, Washingtonian, Usonian, Uessian, U-S-ian, Uesican, United Stater."


Close to proof (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_words_for_American)

At the very least, it's 70 years old.

I don't want to call niggers black, I don't want to call chinks Chinese, etc. See where that argument falls down?

As long as you don't try to say that the term USian is in any way related to hateful terms like that. You don't really believe that it is associated with a history of violence and discrimination do you?

Close to proof (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_words_for_American)

At the very least, it's 70 years old.

Hey! I like United Stater. It's cute.

As long as you don't try to say that the term USian is in any way related to hateful terms like that.

It has been used in a derogatory manner as of late.

I wouldn't call it a replacement, at least not yet. But alternative, yes.

However, it just doesn't sound as good as American. It just sounds awkward. But maybe if I was used to it...

Hey! I like United Stater. It's cute.

I think it's a good one as well. We might be on to a winner.

It has been used in a derogatory manner as of late.

So has "French", as Sin poitned out. So has "American". So has "Socialist".

I asked a question earlier. Is USAmerican okay?

Because I am not going to use the term American. Sorry. Not going to do it. My English has become too international, and I am too used to thinking in more than one language for that term to sit right with me.

As for your reasoning for getting all offended, it seems rather forced, just like it always has.

For me, the words themselves are not offensive. it's how it's used. so I really don't care if USian or US American or American is used, the key is how they are used.

if someone asks "please don't use that term" would it be wrong to keep using it when addressing that person?

I do know that some people are offended by that label and...
If it's "American or nothing" then you're not actually trying.
there are some here that are also arguing "Well it's USian or nothing."

even to the point of trying to "sell" it to others, calling them irrational, and just plain pushing the point reguardless of what the offended say.

So has "French", as Sin poitned out. So has "American". So has "Socialist".

And so has every fucking adjective in the English language, but people don't make up new ones.

And so has every fucking adjective in the English language, but people don't make up new ones.

They don't? I guess the dictionary's useless then. "Right, no neologisms in teh adjective category from now on!" :rolleyes:

For me, the words themselves are not offensive. it's how it's used. so I really don't care if USian or US American or American is used, the key is how they are used.

if someone asks "please don't use that term" would it be wrong to keep using it when addressing that person? Except you folks are saying 'please don't use that term' no matter how the term is used. So forgive me for not believing that it's the intent, not the word.

They don't? I guess the dictionary's useless then. "Right, no neologisms in teh adjective category from now on!" :rolleyes:

You know what I mean. People don't just make up a replacement set of adjectives because the old ones were used in a derogatory manner.

Except you folks are saying 'please don't use that term' no matter how the term is used. So forgive me for not believing that it's the intent, not the word.

"You folks" I have never asked anyone to not use 'USian.'

I have said I prefer American, but I have responded to posts using other terminology without asking them to change their words.

I said "I" look at intent. not that everyone else does. ;)

Of course not, however if someone personally tells you they don't like it and you continue.....you're being an ass right?

If that is still a one-on-one interaction, yes. However, as I've pointed out, this forum is not such an interaction. If you don't like a term on, say, a flyer or a widespread email, your one objection isn't likely to change the wording.

For the record, I don't mind US American or USAmerican. USian pisses me off for reasons I can't quite pinpoint.

Which kinda robs your reasons of, well, reason.

*snip*

there are some here that are also arguing "Well it's USian or nothing."

Bullshit. Show me one.

even to the point of trying to "sell" it to others, calling them irrational, and just plain pushing the point reguardless of what the offended say.

Wait, people making an argument are actually trying to SELL that argument to their opponents? The horror. A debate happens where one side calls the other "irrational"? No! Surely not, no!

The point is that if I use a word that offends one person in a conversation between me and that person, I'll gladly change my wording (with or without apology as the situation demands). But when addressing a mass of people, I get to choose how to address them. If a small minority is offended by a term that, in and of itself, has no offense in it, either from construction, context or history, I'm likely to think that the problem lies with the offended until such time as a legitimate source of the offense can be shown.

The point is that if I use a word that offends one person in a conversation between me and that person, I'll gladly change my wording (with or without apology as the situation demands). But when addressing a mass of people, I get to choose how to address them. If a small minority is offended by a term that, in and of itself, has no offense in it, either from construction, context or history, I'm likely to think that the problem lies with the offended until such time as a legitimate source of the offense can be shown.

So, Injun and Negro and Russkie.

The point is that if I use a word that offends one person in a conversation between me and that person, I'll gladly change my wording (with or without apology as the situation demands). But when addressing a mass of people, I get to choose how to address them. If a small minority is offended by a term that, in and of itself, has no offense in it, either from construction, context or history, I'm likely to think that the problem lies with the offended until such time as a legitimate source of the offense can be shown.

and I for one am not saying you're wrong when addressing the forum as a whole. but when it breaks down to you replying to someone who "asks (don't use [term] please" would you still persist in using that term when replying to that person, or would you refrain?

as I and others point out, it's not when addressing the forum in general, but to specific posters.

and I for one am not saying you're wrong when addressing the forum as a whole. but when it breaks down to you replying to someone who "asks (don't use [term] please" would you still persist in using that term when replying to that person, or would you refrain?

as I and others point out, it's not when addressing the forum in general, but to specific posters.

Were I to address Smunk or anyone else "offended" by USian, I'd refrain, again, were I addressing them and them alone.

So, Injun and Negro and Russkie.

:rolleyes:

The first two have histories. The latter doesn't. I still use it.

So, Injun and Negro and Russkie.

Sure, theyre exactly the same as USian if you ignore the centuries of historical context.

Were I to address Smunk or anyone else "offended" by USian, I'd refrain, again, were I addressing them and them alone.
I wouldn't ask you not to, since I really don't know why it pisses me off.

I wouldn't ask you not to, since I really don't know why it pisses me off.

Fair enough.

I shan't use it in direct replies to you, then, Smunk, as I've found over time that you're worth the consideration. I don't always agree with you, but you've never shown yourself to be anything but a considerate debater.

For what its worth, I like 'yank". I dont know why. Maybe its the history behind it.

In our defense, we were calling ourselves that first so we get dibs. :tongue:

"We" were calling ourselves British up until about 1765, give or take a few years. Creoles (people of European descent born in the colonies) in Mexico started calling themselves americanos (Americans) at about the same time the Bourbons got the Spanish throne - some 50 years before the French and Indian War.

USian has the context of GoG deliberately using it to offend. Russkie is a deliberately derogatory term from the Cold War. If it's the intent, not the word, then it's okay for me to use those words as long as I don't mean offense. If past usage makes it offensive, then why can't USian be considered offensive based on past usage? Who gets to decide whether a word is real offensive, or just fake offensive? Is there a certain amount of time a word has to have been used offensively for it to be considered real offensive?

Actually the Mexicans are USians as well. It's the Estados Unidos Mexicanos. ;) United Mexican States.

Good catch.
(P.S: You inverted United and Mexican in the Spanish -> English translation.)

Hey! I like United Stater. It's cute.

Easily shortened to "user"? Hmmm...

Nice distinction.

*rimshot (http://www.instantrimshot.com)* :D

USian has the context of GoG deliberately using it to offend. Russkie is a deliberately derogatory term from the Cold War. If it's the intent, not the word, then it's okay for me to use those words as long as I don't mean offense. If past usage makes it offensive, then why can't USian be considered offensive based on past usage?
Based on the usage of one single individual?

Who gets to decide whether a word is real offensive, or just fake offensive? Is there a certain amount of time a word has to have been used offensively for it to be considered real offensive?

Dunno. Take n.igger (damn word filter). I'm still puzzled by why it's OK for some people to use it, but offensive when some people use it - regardless of intent.

USian has the context of GoG deliberately using it to offend.

I stopped reading there.

What?


Personally, I think the whole debate is silly. A lot of the people who use "USian" use it only because it, for some strange reason, bothers some Americans.

People on both sides are just being childish.

Ahhhh. Cabra West recently used USAmerican and TAI got all pissy about it. I hadn't noticed the term before, but when I went back to some old USian threads, and even previous to that, like back in 05 or so, she was using it then too.

If USAmerican is okay, what is so bad about shortening it to USian for ease of typing? I mean it's not like we don't shorten other words, like gov't, ffs.

I see no problem with that, being an insider.

Easily shortened to "user"? Hmmm...

No, USer.

USer?

That one could be mistaken for a typo of the word user.

That one could be mistaken for a typo of the word user.

Which was the point of my original joke.

I think of myself as a Trekkie first. Do not address me by my nationality, address me by my fandom!

...Well, Americans are residents of the United States of America.

Is there something wrong with calling us Americans? I'm failing to see the point, here.

Has colloquial usage gone completely out the window?

It's an idiotic and illiterate neologism that is offensive and was created primarily to be offensive. But please, Americaphobes, keep using it so I can identify you and take appropriate UserCP action.

It's an idiotic and illiterate neologism that is offensive and was created primarily to be offensive. But please, Americaphobes, keep using it so I can identify you and take appropriate UserCP action.

proof?

Based on the usage of one single individual?

That's my point. How long does something have to be used offensively before it's considered offensive?

It's an idiotic and illiterate neologism that is offensive and was created primarily to be offensive. But please, Americaphobes, keep using it so I can identify you and take appropriate UserCP action.

That's absurd. It was created by native Spanish speakers who learned English. It's a direct translation of the Spanish word for people from the United States. Instead of translating to the colloquial word for people from the United States, it is a literal translation. Stop acting like it's part of some anti-American conspiracy, and/or grow some thicker skin.

It's an idiotic and illiterate neologism that is offensive and was created primarily to be offensive. But please, Americaphobes, keep using it so I can identify you and take appropriate UserCP action.

And you would be our shining ideal here, since you never have and never will purposefully try to offend anybody.

If we are, as some propose, going to find a new name for residents of the United States, do we not also have to find a new name for the residents of Australia?

Or is there another term other than 'Australian' of which I am unaware?

No, USer.

That one could be mistaken for a typo of the word user.

When you consider % of global population vs. % of global resource consumption...that might be one hell of a lot more accurate than first appearances.

It's an idiotic and illiterate neologism that is offensive and was created primarily to be offensive. But please, Americaphobes, keep using it so I can identify you and take appropriate UserCP action.

Right. A neologism collected by H.L. Mencken, who was collecting collective nouns for citizens of the USA from between 1789 and 1939.

I know you're pig-headed, but you usually at least TRY to read the thread.

That's my point. How long does something have to be used offensively before it's considered offensive?

That would of course depend on the word and the connotations it brings. For example, any animal name will bring animalistic traits into play, and the word "pig" will for many be viewed as an offensive description due to the connection we make between the animal and uncleanliness.

For this one I think it would have to be prolonged offensive usage by a larger group of people, as it doesn't have any particularly negative connotations (that I know of). Excactly where the limits are I can't say.

No, USer.

Yeah, but user or User or USer... I'd see that as potentially more offensive than USian would ever be.

(I'd like to point to Intangelon's post above here...)

Were I to address Smunk or anyone else "offended" by USian, I'd refrain, again, were I addressing them and them alone.

and that's fine. as I said, I have no problem with that.

as for the "some people insist on using 'USian'" the exchange between TAI and GoG (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=14659249#post14659249) is one example. ;)

I have personally never seen the term USian used anywhere but here and im about as upset by it as i am when i forget to floss.

I think the real question is,

Do people from Canada, Mexico, and South America really want to be Americans?

The way I hear it, we're not that popular as of late...

And when Me, and several posters tried to convince Canadians they had things in common with us, they werent very receptive to the idea...

I think the real question is,

Do people from Canada, Mexico, and South America really want to be Americans?

The way I hear it, we're not that popular as of late...

And when Me, and several posters tried to convince Canadians they had things in common with us, they werent very receptive to the idea...

We don't want to be USians.

We're already Americans.

We don't want to be USians.



Psh this is a lie.

If someone would like to prove me wrong, go ahead, as my knowledge of the North and South American Geopolitical landscape is a bit messy, at best, but I believe we are the only nation with 'America' in it's name, and thus American is my preferred term. Although I don't mind USian, most of the time.

If someone called a Canadian an American, would the Canadian be offended? Do any of the citizens of any of the countries in North or South America other than those of the USA call themselves "Americans"? I personally think the whole thing is silly, except when it outrages people who then post their outrage here, which is funny.

We don't want to be USians.

We're already Americans.

So youd tell random person A), from, say, Japan, that you are an American?

five bucks says he's not going to think Canada...

If someone called a Canadian an American, would the Canadian be offended? Do any of the citizens of any of the countries in North or South America other than those of the USA call themselves "Americans"? I personally think the whole thing is silly, except when it outrages people who then post their outrage here, which is funny.

Well there are apparently some people who are proud of their continent, or want to be identified by what continent they're from rather than what country.

If someone called a Canadian an American, would the Canadian be offended? Do any of the citizens of any of the countries in North or South America other than those of the USA call themselves "Americans"? I personally think the whole thing is silly, except when it outrages people who then post their outrage here, which is funny.

Yeah, it started as flaimbait for non-Americans and spawned into a meme of sorts to flame/troll Americans without mod retribution....

At first it bothered the hell out of me, but, after awhile i just dont pay attention to it, Whenever someone makes a claim, I just tell em they can be annexed whenever they desire, lol...

Well there are apparently some people who are proud of their continent, or want to be identified by what continent they're from rather than what country.

Really? How very advanced and sophisticated. Name two. ;)

The thing is, not only do we call ourselves Americans, just about everyone else does, too (except you and those two other people, I suppose).

Yeah, it started as flaimbait for non-Americans and spawned into a meme of sorts to flame/troll Americans without mod retribution....

At first it bothered the hell out of me, but, after awhile i just dont pay attention to it, Whenever someone makes a claim, I just tell em they can be annexed whenever they desire, lol...

:D

I've done that, too. "Does Monday work for you? Oh, wait, no, sorry, we're annexing Lower Slobbovia on Monday. How about a week from Monday, I think we're free that day, yes, shall I pencil you in?"

It's probably one of the most retarded fucking terms I have ever heard, and I say this as a Brit, who doesn't give a fucking flying shit about Americans.

First off, I did believe that the term "US Americans" didn't really exist. In German, in order to distinguish even further, the US is added - but somehow usually doesn't make it through translation, leaving you with "Americans". Little too broad for my taste, but that's okay, I guess.

Then I was looking up Sam Carter (the one and only, you know who!) on wiki after having watched "Seth" to check on her family. And guess what it reads under "nationality"?

Nope, not "American", but "US American". I was quite surprised, to say the least. (And no, I did not edit the page just to fit this thread. That would be silly.)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samantha_Carter
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_O%27Neill
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Jackson_(Stargate)

Psh this is a lie. Hush you. I will do you violence.

So youd tell random person A), from, say, Japan, that you are an American?

five bucks says he's not going to think Canada...

I don't talk to Pacific Asians :p

GoG wa born in South America, but grew up in North America. Should he say he is a south/north American? American makes more sense, and expresses more of his continental identity.

And to be honest, I prefer the blank look random person A), from, say, Japan get when I tell them I'm from Nehiyaw Askiy...Cree Territory.

It's probably one of the most retarded fucking terms I have ever heard, and I say this as a Brit, who doesn't give a fucking flying shit about Americans.

Didn't you admit to using it sometimes though? muahahahahaahahah!

Hush you. I will do you violence.



I don't talk to Pacific Asians :p

GoG wa born in South America, but grew up in North America. Should he say he is a south/north American? American makes more sense, and expresses more of his continental identity.

And to be honest, I prefer the blank look random person A), from, say, Japan get when I tell them I'm from Nehiyaw Askiy...Cree Territory.

I prefer to state which country I associate myself with most. That happens to be the USA, so I call myself American. But hey, whatever floats yer boat.;)

Didn't you admit to using it sometimes though? muahahahahaahahah!

Shhh! That post was deleted, therefore it never happened. :p

*snip*

Im okay with US American, if its required, but the term "USian" is just retarded...

and is an obvious attempt at non-US American members of this forum to "talk down" so to speak the American Members...

Im okay with US American, if its required, but the term "USian" is just retarded...
I agree. And I've never used it, and most probably never will.
and is an obvious attempt at non-US American members of this forum to "talk down" so to speak the American Members...
Yeah, well, I keep out of that quagmire. I just read this thread before I watched some TV, did some research, and strangely enough, stumbled upon the term that I was convinced wasn't used - and yet it was.

*Unscheduled Off-World Activation!*

Okay, I'm outta here for tonight.

Im okay with US American, if its required, but the term "USian" is just retarded...

and is an obvious attempt at non-US American members of this forum to "talk down" so to speak the American Members...

You know what, seriously, rethink. I'm a little tired of being placed into this so called anti-US conspiracy. I don't go out of my way to be a douchebag to people because they're US citizens. I do a good job of differentiating between said US citizens and their gov't and its policies, past and present. The term was brought to NSG, as I recall, by Sumamba Buwhan, who is himself a USian. I thought it was great, since I had been struggling with the term "American" for a while not only because I speak two languages that have equivalent terms, but also because my studies at the time were centered on the Americas as a whole. Not to mention the verbal bitch slapping I have gotten over the past 15 years of travelling throughout Latin America, where I learned not to use the term Americano when referring to US Americans alone.

Yankee, yanqui, gringo...these are terms that are used widely in a derogatory fashion in Latin America. I don't use these terms for that reason, because when I want to insult someone, I do it. No need to beat around the bush. But USian? Fucking SERIOUSLY? Show me the history. Show me the oppressive fucking use of this term, the conspiracy, the group of douchebags who got together and, chuckling about their own cleverness, introduced this horrible term to the world. Do that for me, so I can kick their unoriginal, failed fucking asses, because if I wanted to come up with a rude, insulting term for your people, believe me, there would be no missing my point.

You know what, seriously, rethink. I'm a little tired of being placed into this so called anti-US conspiracy. I don't go out of my way to be a douchebag to people because they're US citizens. I do a good job of differentiating between said US citizens and their gov't and its policies, past and present. The term was brought to NSG, as I recall, by Sumamba Buwhan, who is himself a USian. I thought it was great, since I had been struggling with the term "American" for a while not only because I speak two languages that have equivalent terms, but also because my studies at the time were centered on the Americas as a whole. Not to mention the verbal bitch slapping I have gotten over the past 15 years of travelling throughout Latin America, where I learned not to use the term Americano when referring to US Americans alone.

Yankee, yanqui, gringo...these are terms that are used widely in a derogatory fashion in Latin America. I don't use these terms for that reason, because when I want to insult someone, I do it. No need to beat around the bush. But USian? Fucking SERIOUSLY? Show me the history. Show me the oppressive fucking use of this term, the conspiracy, the group of douchebags who got together and, chuckling about their own cleverness, introduced this horrible term to the world. Do that for me, so I can kick their unoriginal, failed fucking asses, because if I wanted to come up with a rude, insulting term for your people, believe me, there would be no missing my point.

Ah, Neesika, you are missing the point. Let's put it into Generalite terms, shall we? Calling someone a 'Yank', or a 'Gringo' would be flaming, whereas USian is used to flamebait, even if that wasn't their original purpose.

*snip*

Look, Im not blaming you specifically for it, and Im not claiming a "Conspiracy" or anything...

But, I am saying that when the term was first used, menacingly or not, several US Americans were offended by the term...

Unfortunately, their reactions were way over the top, and several members did, and continue to take delight in coaxing out these reactions...

When terms such as "US American" exist, and people still want to use a term that offends so many of the members, its just not right...

GoG wa born in South America, but grew up in North America. Should he say he is a south/north American? American makes more sense, and expresses more of his continental identity.

hmm... if an African moves to America, then they are African-American. If a Japanese moves to America, then they are Japanese-American...

so that would make GoG a North-South American. :p

Meh. I find the term USian awkward and silly, but not nearly as silly as the fuss made by those "offended" by it.*

*Some of whom have a record of little sensitivity about language used to describe women and minorities and frequently complain about "political correctness" and/or "newspeak."

hmm... if an African moves to America, then they are African-American. If a Japanese moves to America, then they are Japanese-American...

so that would make GoG a North-South American. :p

Except you guys use African-American to refer to people whose ancestral connection to Africa is long forgotten. I always thought it weird to call actual people from Africa African-American too. It seems to have a specific meaning in the US that doesn't translate well to describing recent immigrants from Africa. Perhaps that's why in Canada, we refer to them according to where in Africa they're from, and we don't use the term African-American (or Canadian) at all since most of 'our' blacks are from the Carribbean and make it known.

hmm... if an African moves to America, then they are African-American. If a Japanese moves to America, then they are Japanese-American...

so that would make GoG a North-South American. :p

How about GoG being a "Longitudinal American" and citizens of the United States being "Latitudinal Americans"? Or would that be too much like "Latin Americans" and only cause confusion?

Hmm ... no, "Latitudinal" probably won't work, they have latitude in Canada and Mexico, too.

Except you guys use African-American to refer to people whose ancestral connection to Africa is long forgotten. I always thought it weird to call actual people from Africa African-American too. It seems to have a specific meaning in the US that doesn't translate well to describing recent immigrants from Africa. Perhaps that's why in Canada, we refer to them according to where in Africa they're from, and we don't use the term African-American (or Canadian) at all since most of 'our' blacks are from the Carribbean and make it known.

Which is why I'd prefer people just refer to themselves/others as the country/nationality they associate themselves with most.-.-

Except you guys use African-American to refer to people whose ancestral connection to Africa is long forgotten. I always thought it weird to call actual people from Africa African-American too. It seems to have a specific meaning in the US that doesn't translate well to describing recent immigrants from Africa. Perhaps that's why in Canada, we refer to them according to where in Africa they're from, and we don't use the term African-American (or Canadian) at all since most of 'our' blacks are from the Carribbean and make it known.

Well, luckily in Canada you seem to have a lot fewer people of African descent who have no idea what country they're actually from.

When terms such as "US American" exist, and people still want to use a term that offends so many of the members, its just not right...

Outside of Cabra West using that term, and me noticing just recently by going through threads from 2005 that she used it previously, I've never seen US American before. So I think it's a little dishonest of you to say this alternate term has been floating out there all along and we've just ignored it.

I would also like to point out that US American can still be shortened for ease and convenience to USian, or USan, or whatever. I don't get why USian is so fucking offensive, and yet US American is just fine.

Outside of Cabra West using that term, and me noticing just recently by going through threads from 2005 that she used it previously, I've never seen US American before. So I think it's a little dishonest of you to say this alternate term has been floating out there all along and we've just ignored it.

I would also like to point out that US American can still be shortened for ease and convenience to USian, or USan, or whatever. I don't get why USian is so fucking offensive, and yet US American is just fine.

USian was recently used by GoG to arguably flamebait TAI, and it's because some people take offense to it, the same way some people take offense to others being called Americans instead of US Americans, or USians. It's all a matter of personal preference.

No, USian is not suitable or appropriate replacement for American.

It is a stupid, wrong, and irritating term.

Except you guys use African-American to refer to people whose ancestral connection to Africa is long forgotten. I always thought it weird to call actual people from Africa African-American too. It seems to have a specific meaning in the US that doesn't translate well to describing recent immigrants from Africa. Perhaps that's why in Canada, we refer to them according to where in Africa they're from, and we don't use the term African-American (or Canadian) at all since most of 'our' blacks are from the Carribbean and make it known.

as a general rule? I call everyone from the USA, American. every From Canada, Canadian, etc... unless asked to do otherwise. :tongue:

Whenever I'm asked what my Ethnic Background is... I say... Hawaiian... expecially after taking a look behind me. ;)

Outside of Cabra West using that term, and me noticing just recently by going through threads from 2005 that she used it previously, I've never seen US American before. So I think it's a little dishonest of you to say this alternate term has been floating out there all along and we've just ignored it.

I would also like to point out that US American can still be shortened for ease and convenience to USian, or USan, or whatever. I don't get why USian is so fucking offensive, and yet US American is just fine.

Largely because "US American" incorporates the "United States of America" in it....

Whereas USian just makes no sense, and is not descriptive of people from the United States...

But, whether you understand or not, and the ignorance of the Term US American is beside the point, in this context...

I understand that we aren't the only country on the continent(s), but we are the only one with America in the name. We aren't being arrogant when we say "American." South Africans don't get chided by the rest of Southern Africa. *shrugs* Whatever. I'll still say I'm American, not "United Statesese" or "USian." Those sound so stupid, and I'm not trying to claim the whole flipping continent.

I understand that we aren't the only country on the continent(s), but we are the only one with America in the name. We aren't being arrogant when we say "American." South Africans don't get chided by the rest of Southern Africa. *shrugs* Whatever. I'll still say I'm American, not "United Statesese" or "USian." Those sound so stupid, and I'm not trying to claim the whole flipping continent.

Well, He's not, Im always looking to expand our Imperial Possessions, :p

USian was recently used by GoG to arguably flamebait TAI,
Oh noeses! TAI got offended! It must be a blanket offensive term! Plus, anyone else who uses it is intending to be offensive!

Shocking how someone who joyously applauds Pinochet and other right wing dictators can be so damn sensitive.

You know, I get offended when TAI uses words like newspeak, and political correctness, and liberal and whatever other term he uses with the explicit intent to flame and flame-bait. Do I fucking cry and bang my head and run to Moderation to make him, and the rest of you, stop using these terms?

Uh, no.


and it's because some people take offense to it, the same way some people take offense to others being called Americans instead of US Americans, or USians. It's all a matter of personal preference.

K. I'm going to warn you now never to call me a liberal, a leftist, a bleeding heart, a proponent of PC, a user of newspeak. If you do, I will be offended. I will complain. Now that you've had this warning, you cannot avoid offending me by using these terms, even if they aren't directed at me. This goes for everyone else who uses these terms as well. Thank you, good night.

Let's go for a compromise and just call 'em Yanks. Or Septics, if you like rhyming slang.
i am american/usian/usamerican whatever you like and i find septics offensive:mad::headbang:. it makes me so mad, i could bang my head against something. whatever you call us is your choice. just save the nasty ones for private talking with people outside the usa.

Oh noeses! TAI got offended! It must be a blanket offensive term! Plus, anyone else who uses it is intending to be offensive!

Shocking how someone who joyously applauds Pinochet and other right wing dictators can be so damn sensitive.

You know, I get offended when TAI uses words like newspeak, and political correctness, and liberal and whatever other term he uses with the explicit intent to flame and flame-bait. Do I fucking cry and bang my head and run to Moderation to make him, and the rest of you, stop using these terms?

Uh, no.

Awww, she's so defensive when she's angry.

It was flamebaiting to use that term in that particular circumstance, GoG knew it, TAI knew it, the mods disagreed, for God knows what reason. However, the point still stands that USian is offensive to some. Are you saying because some people can be hyprocritical, it's okay for everyone to be? Or is it just TAI that can't be hypocritical, only good, left-leaning persons such as yourself.

K. I'm going to warn you now never to call me a liberal, a leftist, a bleeding heart, a proponent of PC, a user of newspeak. If you do, I will be offended. I will complain. Now that you've had this warning, you cannot avoid offending me by using these terms, even if they aren't directed at me. This goes for everyone else who uses these terms as well. Thank you, good night.
Wrong. If you don't wish for me to use these terms against you, I won't. But you can be damn sure that I'll use these terms against other people, if they do not carry similar sentiments about said terms. Don't try to twist my words, and don't let your dislike of TAI get in the way of your arguments.

You know, I get offended when TAI uses words like newspeak, and political correctness, and liberal and whatever other term he uses with the explicit intent to flame and flame-bait. Do I fucking cry and bang my head and run to Moderation to make him, and the rest of you, stop using these terms? I don't believe he [TAI] was complaining that the term itself was being used, but that he perceived it to be used in a baiting manner.

K. I'm going to warn you now never to call me a liberal, a leftist, a bleeding heart, a proponent of PC, a user of newspeak. If you do, I will be offended. I will complain. Now that you've had this warning, you cannot avoid offending me by using these terms, even if they aren't directed at me. This goes for everyone else who uses these terms as well. Thank you, good night. *makes List*

gotcha! ;)

United States of America. Seriously, if you give that much of a fuck grow the hell up because it really doesn't matter that much. That's the name of our country and that's all there is to it.

i am american/usian/usamerican whatever you like and i find septics offensive:mad::headbang:. it makes me so mad, i could bang my head against something. whatever you call us is your choice. just save the nasty ones for private talking with people outside the usa.

Whats septics? Never heard o that one, lol...

Oh noeses! TAI got offended! It must be a blanket offensive term! Plus, anyone else who uses it is intending to be offensive!

Shocking how someone who joyously applauds Pinochet and other right wing dictators can be so damn sensitive.

You know, I get offended when TAI uses words like newspeak, and political correctness, and liberal and whatever other term he uses with the explicit intent to flame and flame-bait. Do I fucking cry and bang my head and run to Moderation to make him, and the rest of you, stop using these terms?

Uh, no.

Does it matter whether TAI is also guilty of flaming and flamebait? I was not aware that we operated under a "two wrongs make a right" rulebook here on NSG.

I've never understood this arguement. I'm Mancunian and I've never particulary liked the term Manc used to describe me, it's too close to manky, i.e. dirty and unwashed.

I don't bitch and moan about it, chances are there are more important things to discuss at any given point in time.

btw, why did people use these words? Fredonian and Frede

Does it matter whether TAI is also guilty of flaming and flamebait? I was not aware that we operated under a "two wrongs make a right" rulebook here on NSG.

No, we're all just so squeaky clean here on NSG. We don't ever do things like that.

I don't care if you think GoG got all up in TAIs face. That doesn't mean that everyone else who uses the term means it offensively. I'm sorry, but GoG is not so cool that his recent use of the term has created an atmosphere of oppression or has imbued the term with an intrinsic attitude of contempt. You go ahead and search every time I've used the term. I challenge you to see if it's been used in a deliberately insulting way.

Whats septics? Never heard o that one, lol...

Rhyming slang.

Septic tanks = Yanks

United States of America. Seriously, if you give that much of a fuck grow the hell up because it really doesn't matter that much. That's the name of our country and that's all there is to it.

Yeah, and its not without precedent either, I call people from the UK British, because its the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland...

Not "UKian" or whatever nonsense...and Although Ireland is part of the British Isles, I never hear Irish people calling to be named "British", for that matter...

No, we're all just so squeaky clean here on NSG. We don't ever do things like that.

I don't care if you think GoG got all up in TAIs face. That doesn't mean that everyone else who uses the term means it offensively. I'm sorry, but GoG is not so cool that his recent use of the term has created an atmosphere of oppression or has imbued the term with an intrinsic attitude of contempt. You go ahead and search every time I've used the term. I challenge you to see if it's been used in a deliberately insulting way.

problem is you are not the only one who uses it, Ive never claimed that you personally have used the term derisively...

But, that doesnt dismiss the fact that it has been done before, and for that purpose...

Yeah, and its not without precedent either, I call people from the UK British, because its the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland...

Not "UKian" or whatever nonsense...and Although Ireland is part of the British Isles, I never hear Irish people calling to be named "British", for that matter...

Exactly. You've got to be pretty damn stupid to think that the term "American" refers to anything else besides the United States of America; if you do use it to refer to the continents, people are going to know that and aren't going to be confused. It's nothing more than an attempt to slight the US by diminishing its name because it just happens to share it with part of the name of the two continents that comprise the Americas.

Exactly. You've got to be pretty damn stupid to think that the term "American" refers to anything else besides the United States of America; if you do use it to refer to the continents, people are going to know that and aren't going to be confused. It's nothing more than an attempt to slight the US by diminishing its name because it just happens to share it with part of the name of the two continents that comprise the Americas.

Seriously, get over it.

The US is the most powerful country in the world by almost every measure, what doees it matter what a few people on the internet call it's citizens?

Easily shortened to "user"? Hmmm...
it would be USer unless people were sloppy about capitalizing. in this case i would capitalize. i don't have to use it. i am a free woman by birth and am not real oppressed yet. however, i may soon be opressed. the rest of this month will tell. at the end of this month, BHO will have been president 100 days.

and that's fine. as I said, I have no problem with that.

as for the "some people insist on using 'USian'" the exchange between TAI and GoG (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=14659249#post14659249) is one example. ;)

Uh...no. That exchange shows TAI's rampant and selective hypersenstitivity. The term USian was used in a medium-length post and was used as an abbreviation, not as flamebait. TAI made the fuss. The fact that G-o-G refused to comply with TAI's request not to use it says more about him than it does the term.

Exactly. You've got to be pretty damn stupid to think that the term "American" refers to anything else besides the United States of America; if you do use it to refer to the continents, people are going to know that and aren't going to be confused. It's nothing more than an attempt to slight the US by diminishing its name because it just happens to share it with part of the name of the two continents that comprise the Americas.

Well, as long as we're bandying opinions about, I think you've got to be even more stupid to get genuinely cheesed off over something this trivial.

Uh...no. That exchange shows TAI's rampant and selective hypersenstitivity. The term USian was used in a medium-length post and was used as an abbreviation, not as flamebait. TAI made the fuss. The fact that G-o-G refused to comply with TAI's request not to use it says more about him than it does the term.

and that was my point. the term itself isn't the problem to me. its HOW it's used.

No, we're all just so squeaky clean here on NSG. We don't ever do things like that.

I don't care if you think GoG got all up in TAIs face. That doesn't mean that everyone else who uses the term means it offensively. I'm sorry, but GoG is not so cool that his recent use of the term has created an atmosphere of oppression or has imbued the term with an intrinsic attitude of contempt. You go ahead and search every time I've used the term. I challenge you to see if it's been used in a deliberately insulting way.

You're right, it doesn't. Intent matters. GoG used the term in a deliberately insulting way; therefore, it was an insult. If someone uses it in a non-deliberately insulting way, then it's not an insult.

So, if I call you an Injun, but not in an attempt to insult you, it's not an insult, right?

A word cannot have an "instrinsic attitude of contempt." A word is just a word. Any "attitude" attached to it is done purely by the speaker and the listener.

Based on the usage of one single individual?



Dunno. Take n.igger (damn word filter). I'm still puzzled by why it's OK for some people to use it, but offensive when some people use it - regardless of intent.
n.igger is offensive to black people when used by a non-black. i have heard black people use it on themselves. if a black person uses it on his/herself ,it would be like me calling myself a kraut (i'm part german and kraut is a word for a german.

and that was my point. the term itself isn't the problem to me. its HOW it's used.

Same here, and I would also say that if you do not wish to use a term that can be interpreted in that way, "US American" is a perfectly acceptable alternative...

Well, as long as we're bandying opinions about, I think you've got to be even more stupid to get genuinely cheesed off over something this trivial.

Just 888 this shit and go do something else. Maybe drink some Arrogant Bastard Ale like me.

Uh...no. That exchange shows TAI's rampant and selective hypersenstitivity. The term USian was used in a medium-length post and was used as an abbreviation, not as flamebait. TAI made the fuss. The fact that G-o-G refused to comply with TAI's request not to use it says more about him than it does the term.

Wait, was it someone else who posted this?

The point is that if I use a word that offends one person in a conversation between me and that person, I'll gladly change my wording (with or without apology as the situation demands).

If TAI had asked you to stop using that term becaue he found it offensive, as TAI asked GoG, would you have complied with his "rampant and selective hypersensitivity"?

Seriously, I think it's a stupid term. Yes, American could technically be confusing if Canadians were regularly referring to themselves as American (which is more likely now that Bush has left office), but they don't really, so American is perfectly useful. However, there is nothing stopping an Asian collection of nationstates calling itself the United States of Asia or the United States of Blankety Blank. If you really want to make sure we have a name that will never been confusing, then USAmerican is probably the best I've heard.

That said, who the hell cares. Seriously, I can't believe people calling Obama the Dark Lord and constantly blanketing and insulting the left are complaining because they don't like a term. It's a term. It's a fairly common term I hear in person fairly often with dealing with foreigners (and I do quite often). Sure, it COULD be flamebait, or it could just be their preferred term. Frankly, what I'd prefer or you'd prefer is irrelevent. I'd prefer that Obama be called Mr. President. Let me know when my preferences are the ruleset and then I'll take on USian.

P.S. Long enough for you, Sin?

Wait, was it someone else who posted this?

Dunno. I just hit the multi-quote and got on with life.

If TAI had asked you to stop using that term becaue he found it offensive, as TAI asked GoG, would you have complied with his "rampant and selective hypersensitivity"?

Yes I would have. It's why I posted that any continued use of USian by G-o-G says more about him than it does the word itself. Is this thing on?

Just 888 this shit and go do something else. Maybe drink some Arrogant Bastard Ale like me.

I can't fault your taste in beer, sir.

Dunno. I just hit the multi-quote and got on with life.



Yes I would have. It's why I posted that any continued use of USian by G-o-G says more about him than it does the word itself. Is this thing on?

I'm sorry.

I totally confused the intended "him" in your second sentence. I thought you meant it said it said more about TAI than the word itself.

I'll delete my post if you delete yours. :)

Wait, was it someone else who posted this?



If TAI had asked you to stop using that term becaue he found it offensive, as TAI asked GoG, would you have complied with his "rampant and selective hypersensitivity"?

If he'd said it like TAI, and spoke as TAI often does, no, I'd not have stopped using it. If you'd asked me to stop, I would have. That's because, frankly, I'm doing the other party a favor by changing my verbiage. I'm happy to do so if you're remotely polite.

Similarly, I wouldn't expect most people to adjust if I were just being sensitive, mostly because I'm caustic in a lot of the same way as TAI and others who complain about this word.

I can't fault your taste in beer, sir.

It really is tasty. Very tasty. I had my first on when someone bought it for me. It may or may not have been because they thought it was appropriate.

I'm sorry.

I totally confused the intended "him" in your second sentence. I thought you meant it said it said more about TAI than the word itself.

I'll delete my post if you delete yours. :)

No need. The exchange shows how NSGers (is that okay? ;)) can peacefully resolve conflicts if they so choose.




You bastid.

It really is tasty. Very tasty. I had my first on when someone bought it for me. It may or may not have been because they thought it was appropriate.

It really does taste like an excellent grapefruit; I was scared when a friend of mine seriously said he could chug ABA, but the truth is that it is an ale that rewards people who appreciate a good, hoppy beer with enough sweetness to really be refreshing.

If he'd said it like TAI, and spoke as TAI often does, no, I'd not have stopped using it. If you'd asked me to stop, I would have. That's because, frankly, I'm doing the other party a favor by changing my verbiage. I'm happy to do so if you're remotely polite.

Similarly, I wouldn't expect most people to adjust if I were just being sensitive, mostly because I'm caustic in a lot of the same way as TAI and others who complain about this word.

I agree. TAI hasn't earned politeness. And I wouldn't ask someone to alter their words for my benefit, either. But that doesn't mean that deliberately using a term known to be offensive to the listener isn't still rude. If I don't like the term "faggot," and someone talking to me knows this, it's still disrespectful for them to purposely use the word in order to inflame me, even if I don't explicitly ask them to stop.

No need. The exchange shows how NSGers (is that okay? ;))

No, its not, Im a Generalite, and proud of it, :p

I agree. TAI hasn't earned politeness. And I wouldn't ask someone to alter their words for my benefit, either. But that doesn't mean that deliberately using a term known to be offensive to the listener isn't still rude. If I don't like the term "faggot," and someone talking to me knows this, it's still disrespectful for them to purposely use the word in order to inflame me, even if I don't explicitly ask them to stop.

Yes, because comparisons between faggot, ****** (someone else brought that one up) and USian are just the same.

I'll tell you what. When someone drags a "USian" down the street behind their car till they die while calling them a "USian", then I'll accept that comparison. Till then, let's compare apples and apples. If you don't like being referred as tow-headed and would rather people call you blond, then is it disrespectful? In my mind, respect is earned. I default to a certain level of respect, but the site doesn't require it and TAI hasn't earned it.

Yes, because comparisons between faggot, ****** (someone else brought that one up) and USian are just the same.

Based on the arguments I've witnessed here, they are. A word is just a word, which is why no one should be insulted by USian, right?

If a gay guy calls himself a faggot, is he inherently insulting himself? Or does the meaning of the word change based on the intent of the speaker? If a black guy calls himself a ******, is he inherently insulting himself? Or does the meaning of the word change based on the intent of the speaker?

The double standard has to go. Either a word can have implied emotion, in which case it's perfectly reasonable for TAI to infer insult in the term "USian", or a word cannot have implied emotion, and terms like Injun and Negro are perfectly acceptable. The word "******" did not drag a man behind its truck. People did.

To take your term, if a person calls you a blonde, referring to your hair color, then does that mean the exact same as someone calling you a blonde, pejoratively referring to your lack of intelligence?

No one cares. Call yourself whatever the hell you want.

Based on the arguments I've witnessed here, they are. A word is just a word, which is why no one should be insulted by USian, right?

If a gay guy calls himself a faggot, is he inherently insulting himself? Or does the meaning of the word change based on the intent of the speaker? If a black guy calls himself a ******, is he inherently insulting himself? Or does the meaning of the word change based on the intent of the speaker?

The double standard has to go. Either a word can have implied emotion, in which case it's perfectly reasonable for TAI to infer insult in the term "USian", or a word cannot have implied emotion, and terms like Injun and Negro are perfectly acceptable. The word "******" did not drag a man behind its truck. People did.

To take your term, if a person calls you a blonde, referring to your hair color, then does that mean the exact same as someone calling you a blonde, pejoratively referring to your lack of intelligence?

Again, I'll accept that USian has inferred emotion like ****** and faggot when someone gets dragged down the street for it, or people move away, or they're denied a job, or they're denied rights. It's one thing when a term captures the oppression someone has experienced. USian doesn't capture any such thing. For the same reason, ****** and honky aren't comparable. It's a perfectly fair standard. The standard is if a term has had years, decades, centuries of oppression tied to it, then you have a legitimate beef.

You show when the Americans have been oppressed for like 10 minutes, and I'll give credence to this argument. Those words have a dark and malign history. USian does not. You can't ignore that fact just because it destroys your argument.

*snip*

I can see your point, and it would probably be valid in everyday usage...

however, In the context of the members of this forum, its beside the point, the term has picked up an implied meaning, true or no, that is considered offensive, whether you agree with it being so or not...

I can see your point, and it would probably be valid in everyday usage...

however, In the context of the members of this forum, its beside the point, the term has picked up and implied meaning, true or no, that is considered offensive, whether you agree with it being so or not...

So what if it's offensive to some. That's my point. I don't care if a term is offensive. Amusingly, several of the people complaining generally complain about the "PC crowd". I don't buy into that shit.

Terms do have denotations and connotations that can't be denied. However, in this case, this term has the connotation built by some kids on the internet in a teasing manner. Not quite comparable to the connotation built by countries that have denied the rights from large groups, built by attempts to eradicate them. When USian conjures up that kind of evil, then, maybe, it can compared to the other terms. Till then it should be compared to terms like lefty.

If someone would like to prove me wrong, go ahead, as my knowledge of the North and South American Geopolitical landscape is a bit messy, at best, but I believe we are the only nation with 'America' in it's name, and thus American is my preferred term. Although I don't mind USian, most of the time.

I already mentioned the fact that we are the only nation with America in its name, and everyone just ignored my post. :(

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14663087&postcount=90

So what if it's offensive to some. That's my point. I don't care if a term is offensive. Amusingly, several of the people complaining generally complain about the "PC crowd". I don't buy into that shit.

Terms do have denotations and connotations that can't be denied. However, in this case, this term has the connotation built by some kids on the internet in a teasing manner. Not quite comparable to the connotation built by countries that have denied the rights from large groups, built by attempts to eradicate them. When USian conjures up that kind of evil, then, maybe, it can compared to the other terms. Till then it should be compared to terms like lefty.

Well, I wasnt comparing it to "that kind of evil" i was comparing it to basically deriding Americans, in the sense of calling us "Douchebags", etc....

Offensive, doesnt necessarily have to be steeped in historical precedence or anything to be considered offensive...