Most of us lapse into strong language from time to time. Using swear words that are considered blasphemous or obscene is a commonplace taboo-breaking practice that helps us to let off steam and release tension when we’re having a tough moment. Research shows that using and being exposed to strong language enhances the flight or fright response, and can even increase our tolerance to pain.
But did you know that the brain processes swearing differently depending on the context? For instance, if you utter a curse word calmly and collectively (maybe when someone asks you how to say ‘$&***XX!’ in a foreign language), you are using the left hemisphere of your brain, but when you swear unintentionally in a moment of heightened emotion you are using the right hand part of the brain, as well as the cerebrum and the amygdala, which process emotions.
Compulsive swearing is often associated with some neurological conditions, famously Tourette Syndrome. Damage to the parts of the brain associated with language processing and emotion can also make people prone to compulsive swearing, a complex condition that can have a significant impact on their ability to work and interact with others socially.
Swearwords and profanities are often quite culturally specific and can be challenging for translators to work with. Hyper-literal translations can just result in confusing words or phrases that don’t resonate with people from different backgrounds, while choosing an appropriate equivalent can be… well, a heck of a job.
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