Even those who aren’t avid cursers will let an F-bomb out at the appropriate time. WTF? There’s an appropriate time to swear? All you polite rule-followers may want to listen up because we’re about to share all the times when you can get away with a perfect dose of profanity.
At the peak of pain.
Whether the pain is physical or emotional, whether it’s the pain of your own failure or whether you’re pained by the injustice of the world — all are fair game. You stubbed your toe? F@#%! You just deleted 18 hours worth of spreadsheets by accident? S#*&! It’s a release of emotion after being hurt, so it’s immediately justified. Especially if it comes out in a very loud, drawn-out yelp. Level of drama should be proportional to the degree of pain.
To break an awkward silence.
Heard someone say something really strange and not quite sure how to react? Well, f*@&. There are just certain times when no other words can do the situation any justice. In that case… sh!#. That one lone curse word is vague yet precise enough to either end the conversation, or make the other person comfortable enough to keep it going and hopefully break the awkwardness. One can only hope.
To channel fury.
Studies have actually shown that swearing (as opposed to bottling up anger) is a healthy way to deal with rage. Letting those curse words out is a cathartic release that makes us feel better. Don’t apologize for the expletives — you’re just looking out for your own well-being. It’s science; curse on!
To put an idiot in his place.
Sometimes, there really is no better way of telling someone to shut the f%#* up than by just saying it. Chances are they deserve it. This is a time when you really shouldn’t hold back. The more sass, the better the effect. Just make sure you’re in the type of relationship with them to be able to get away with it. Your boss probably isn’t the one to use in this situation.
Just because.
If it feels natural, do it. Why the fuck not?