Ever been told to wash your mouth out with soap?
Ever had your ears boxed for telling fibs?
Probably not, since you weren't a child in the Victorian era.
Nevertheless, swearing and lying were probably two big no-nos growing up.
Well, according to a new study, those who swear may actually much more honest people.
The study took inspiration from the famous Gone With The Wind line by Clark Gable, 'Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn.'
The line is famed for it's proudly and directly conveying the character Rhett Butler's feelings.
However, legendarily the use of the 'profane' word 'damn' (whoa there) led to a $5,000 fine for the film's producer.
Apparently, according to the research, this showed the discrepancy between societal views on profanity.
The study goes on to conclude that, indeed, those who are more honest and forthcoming with their feelings do swear more.
This includes all called of inappropriate language like sexual references, vulgarity and offensive slang.
Not only are potty mouths less likely to lie, they also found swearing was a way to express emotions that avoided anti-social or harmful behaviours.
So if you're partial to vulgarity, just go for it because, frankly, my dear, we don't give a damn.
Daisy Murray is the Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, spotlighting emerging designers, sustainable shopping, and celebrity style. Since joining in 2016 as an editorial intern, Daisy has run the gamut of fashion journalism - interviewing Molly Goddard backstage at London Fashion Week, investigating the power of androgynous dressing and celebrating the joys of vintage shopping.
