Cambridge Grammar of English Hardback with cd-rom a comprehensive Guide

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539 Glossary for any unfamiliar terms

From discourse to social contexts | 225

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although people with strong religious views may be offended by both. Learners are

advised against using such expressions, although, especially in informal contexts

and in films and on TV, etc., it is likely that such uses of language will be heard. 

Swearing often takes the form of interjections (

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113

). This can involve single

words or short phrases or clauses that are used to express a variety of strong

feelings, in particular, annoyance, frustration and anger:

Damn! That’s the third time this week the car has broken down. (*)

Christ! Why didn’t you tell me? I could have stopped them!! (**)

Shit! I shouldn’t have used that kind of nail. I’ve broken the lock. (****)

Oh

fuck it! I can’t find the address. (*****)

Christ almighty! They’ve actually won their first match. (**)

Well, 

I’ll be buggered! How did you manage to find that? (****)

Fuck me! That’s not what she told me. How can that possibly be true? (*****)

Wh

-exclamatives with taboo words are also sometimes used:

What the hell are you doing letting that dog out without a lead on! (*)

What the fuck have I done with my glasses! (*****)

[said in response to the phone ringing very late in the evening]

Who the fuck is that! (*****)