Introduction

Political slurs and buzzwords play a significant role in shaping public opinion and political discourse. These terms often carry negative connotations and are used to delegitimize opponents or highlight perceived flaws. This article explores some of the political slurs and buzzwords used in Costa Rica and Sweden, discussing their origins, meanings, and usage in sociopolitical rhetoric.

Political Slurs and Buzzwords in Sweden

Sweden, like many countries, has its share of politically charged slurs and buzzwords. These terms are often used to insult political opponents or to convey dissatisfaction with certain policies. Here are some notable slurs and buzzwords from Swedish political discourse:

Farbror Brun (Uncle Brown): Used to refer to police officers who are seen as protecting fascists. This is a play-on-words with the term Farbror Bl? (Uncle Blue), a slang term for police. Tidelagsliberal/Djurrttsliberal (Beastiality-Liberal/Animal Rights-Liberal): This term refers to a perception that the Youth Wing of the Liberal party (LUF) decided in 2016 to advocate for the legalization of beastiality. Twittervnster (Twitter-Leftist): This term refers to leftists, particularly far-leftists, who are active on Twitter but inactive in other forms of activism, such as protests. Jrnrrshgern (Iron Pipe Right): This refers to right-wing groups, especially the far-right, who threaten violence and then deny doing so. The term is also a reference to the Iron Pipe Scandal. Swishaktivist/Swishjournalist (Swish-activist/journalist): These terms refer to activists and journalists who are perceived as doing their activism or journalism for the sake of funding rather than genuine activism or journalism.

Political Slurs and Buzzwords in Costa Rica

Costa Rica also has its own share of political slurs and buzzwords that reflect the unique political dynamics of the country. Here are some notable examples:

PAClover: These are individuals who support the Citizen Action Party (PAC), the ruling party in the last two administrations. They are often referred to as PACquetazos, or the 'PAC Big Package,' a reference to a proposed tax package that they supported. Ramasheko: This term refers to supporters of the evangelical and pentecostal parties in the Costa Rican Assembly. Other epithets for the same demographic include Fabrilovers (those who support Fabricio Alvarado, a candidate from the evangelical coalition) and Manitas Limpias (Clean Little Hands), who claim to represent honesty and incorruptibility. Chancletudo: This term is used to describe college students who are ready to protest, often violently, about progressive causes. It can be equated to a mix of Somebody From Outside (SJW) and Storm Brigade (Antifa) groups. Pericos and Mariachis: Pericos are those who still support the National Liberation Party, referred to as Parakeets because of the party's flag colors. Mariachis are those who support the elderly ex-president Rafael ángel Calderón and his party, named for the blazer used by his father's supporters in the 1940s, which resembles a mariachi's chaqueta. Villaltalover: This term refers to supporters of the Broad Front Party, whose face is José María Villalta. Despite his clean record, his support for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has significantly damaged the party's reputation.

Conclusion

Political slurs and buzzwords serve as powerful tools in political debates and public discourse. They reflect the tensions and ideological divides within societies. In both Sweden and Costa Rica, these terms have been used to characterize and delegitimize opposing sides. Understanding these terms and their contexts is crucial for comprehending the sociopolitical landscape of each country.

By exploring the political slurs and buzzwords of these two countries, we gain insight into the ways in which language shapes and manipulates public perception. Whether used to vilify opponents or highlight perceived issues, these slurs and buzzwords continue to play a significant role in political rhetoric and discourse around the world.