Explanation
A conventionalised utterance that wishes harm, releases aggression or verbally marks a violated order. Links verbal formulaicity with affect and the idea that words may carry social or magical force.
Example
May the devil take it!
Counterexample
A plain factual statement without the named movement of thought.
Distinction
Unlike an insult, a curse formula performs or stages a complete act of imprecation.
Effect on thought and perception
Links verbal formulaicity with affect and the idea that words may carry social or magical force.
Resonance
Links verbal formulaicity with affect and the idea that words may carry social or magical force.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Curse formula“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-RES6B-0005. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-RES6B-0005The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.