Thanks and congratulations to The Herald editorial staff for introducing to me a new word in its headline for a recent column by George Will. The word is “micro-irritants.”
Whatever was meant by it at the time, I find it to be an apt replacement for the older term “micro-aggression,” which describes an inadvertent deed or use of a term that may offend the hypersensitivities of a member of some ethnic or sexual group.
This term connotes a shameful intent on the part of the user and victimhood on the part of the recipient. And this requires a pointed rebuke to the offender, even if no offense was intended.
“Micro-irritant” focuses on the term or deed itself rather than any perceived shameful intent or harm caused by the occasion. Like a rock in one’s shoe, an irritant may have no shameful intent and cause no real harm. One is under no obligation to be offended. One may call it out or just ignore it, as the case may require.
“Micro-irritant’ is a good word. I will use it. Everybody should use it.
Charles DeBruler
Everett
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