How Do You Feel About the Word Fat?
Credit: MACSURAK
Earlier this week, Jenn railed on the use of the word “fat” in the title of Jackie Warner’s latest book, This Is Why You’re Fat (And How to Get Thin Forever): Eat More, Cheat More, Lose More—and Keep the Weight Off. In fact, Jenn wouldn’t mind kicking the F-word to the curb, much like the guy in the photo above is doing. I tend to agree; there are so many options in the English language that aren’t so negative, but I guess it does get your attention on this book cover. Some people embrace fat, others think it’s demeaning. Does the word bother or offend you?
Share your thoughts on the word in the comments! —Erin
Comments
I voted that I prefer other terms, because as someone who works in the weight loss field, I’m sensitive to calling other people fat, and using a term that many consider negative. However, I personally have no strong feelings about the word, and use it in my personal life. To me…it’s just a word.
I agree that it is an honest word, especially when talking about yourself, but it is still too harsh for me. Overweight is just an honest a term.
While I agree that it can be an honest term, I don’t agree with using it. And why is it okay to use it on ourselves more than others? I strive to be as nice to myself as I am to my best friend. We’re both equally deserving! And I would never try and tear her down.
The word “fat” may be honest, but it’s vastly overused, and because it has such a negative connotation, its overuse can be very damaging. So many people — particularly young women — have been driven to bulimia and anorexia by the brutally stupid impression that ANY fat makes a woman unattractive. There’s nothing very sexy about the microscopic bottoms of the emaciated female models shown in women’s magazines. Most of us heterosexual men are much more excited by a soft, slightly chubby lady’s figure than a slim, boyish appearance, particularly when the slightly chubby lady has a lovely “I look just fine” sort of attitude. If you doubt this, ask some of us!
i think it’s okay to use the word “fat” when we’re talking about health or when used in a broad sense, like, “the western world is getting fat” (which, we all know, is more than true.) considering 60% of North America is classified as overweight, there’s no point in tip-toeing around the issue. (imho.)
unforunately though, “fat” is often associated with aesthetics, and if used, can be quite hurtful to a lot of women. for that reason, i would never use it on a personal level. and i also HATE the idea of what “fat” is, and what “thin” is; like say, Jessica Simpson who “got fat” when she became a size 6 or something crazy. hogwash!! anything over skin and bones doesn’t mean you’re fat! it means you’re healthy!
I voted that it’s honest, but I would never use it to refer to anyone but myself. I guess I’m hard on myself, but when I fall off the wagon and need to kick myself in the rear, I feel FAT and want to get rid of it! The negative term helps me go in a more positive direction. But, I beat myself up regularly, which is not a good thing, so maybe I should consider using a kinder term.
I use the word fat. To me it’s a statement of fact. After I’ve stated the fact, it’s time to move on to action.
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