swearing

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger
noun a commitment to tell the truth (especially in a court of law); to lie under oath is to become subject to prosecution for perjury
verb utter obscenities or profanities

From Middle English sweryng; equivalent to swear + -ing.

“‘Darn’ isn’t swearing—not real swearing. — Anne of the Island, L. M. (Lucy Maud) Montgomery
There was much growling and swearing. — The Red Badge of Courage: An Episode of the American Civil War, Stephen Crane
I hope I an’t swearing, now. — Uncle Tom's Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe

curse, curse word, expletive, oath, swearword, cuss

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