Is redneck an offensive term?

If you own a set of these, you are a redneck and obviously damn proud to be one.

 

Sorry I had to wait before repping you again, or you'd have gotten repped for this gem.

 

Seems pretty offensive to me.

I think an equivalent would be calling someone a "hood rat". As in most cases, it's exclusive to a particular race it is not a term used to spew hate towards all of that race.

 

It is when I use it. On the road. And the closer I get to Oklahoma, the more I use it.

 

Lynus pretty much nailed my thoughts on this. It doesn't bother me for someone to call me a redneck, honkey, cracker, or anything else derogatory.

What bothers me and probably the people in the op's opening post is when a term is used in a broad sense to classify an entire group of people.

Example is I live in Tennessee - I hear from time to time that I am a hillbilly or I am into moonshine or I would love country music, etc. Fact is I don't own a pair of overalls (and never would), I'm not much of a drinker, love music but not country (one of the few genres I don't like) and I don't even own a truck. So, it is not like I have to step on my tires of my vehicle to open the door.

I have a bachelors' and essentially 2 master's; I'm a working professional. I like to think I am an intelligent person. I'm not some toothless, shotgun wielding hick who could be an extra in "Deliverance" but that is the way I feel sometimes when I hear people use a term like "redneck" or "hillbilly" in such a broad sense.

I have found that the best thing to do in situations like this is to try to explain your feelings about the matter. Chances are if you're white like me, you'll probably not get any sympathy. If it continues, even after you ask, I would just avoid the people who can't understand your POV.

But once again, it would not bother me for someone to call me a redneck, especially if I am doing "redneck" things or it is someone who knows me personally. But someone who doesn't know and wants to lump me in with other people I don't know just because we have in common that we live in Tennessee?? I sorta have a problem with that.

 

or this

 

TRUCK NUTZ !!

I want to get some of those to play a practical joke on the guys I play cards with......put them on their cars and see how long it takes them to notice.

DD

 

This. Same for WT

 

Not exactly. Redneck was a term for unionized coal miners in West Virginia in the 1920s, and they wore red bandanas as a sign of solidarity.

 

The word "Ninja" is offensive only if you're NOT a Ninja.

Sho Kosugi said it best: "Only a Ninja can stop a Ninja, mah-ninjas! "

Also, Jackie Chan perfected it: "What's up... my ninja??? "

No, Jackie got his butt kicked, never mind. "LEE!"

 

fify imo

There are terms more derogatory than 'redneck.' Offensive caliber depends on context and intent.