Shit is the tofu of cursing.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author compares the word shit to tofu, implying it is a mild substitute for stronger profanity.
- In plain terms
- Sedaris says the word shit is like tofu because it is a milder option for cursing.
- What can you take from it?
- Sometimes we use milder words to express frustration without being too harsh.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do we soften our language?
- What words do you use to stay polite?
Another view
The comparison relies on the idea that people find shit less offensive than other words.
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