etymology - Why do words like "expectorate" sound more posh than words like "spit"?


I think English is unique in having a set of "bad words" each which has its "more refined" equivalent, e.g.:



spit -> expectorate


piss -> urinate


shit -> defecate


f*ck -> fornicate/copulate



and even:



kiss -> osculate



What is the origin and etymology of this?



Answer



The "more posh" words are usually Latin (occasionally Greek) in origin. The more common sounding words are from original Anglo-Saxon (I'm sure a real linguist knows more). The more educated classes tended to be more likely to use Latin and other foreign terms, while the less educated classes used the vernacular (i.e. the vulgar, common language) of the day.


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