The concept of the “seven dirty words” or “seven words you can’t say on television” was popularized by comedian George Carlin in his 1972 routine “Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television.” However, over time the list has evolved and expanded to include additional words that are considered offensive or inappropriate for broadcast on television or radio.

Here are nine words that are generally considered to be off-limits on television:
- Fuck: This is considered the most offensive word in the English language and is generally not allowed on broadcast television, although it may be allowed on cable networks with certain restrictions. The word is considered vulgar and profane and is often used to express anger, frustration, or emphasis.
- Shit: This word is also considered profane and vulgar and is generally not allowed on broadcast television. However, it may be allowed on cable networks with certain restrictions. The word is often used to express disgust or frustration.
- Cunt: This word is considered extremely offensive and vulgar, and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used as a derogatory term for women and is considered highly disrespectful.
- Nigger: This word is considered highly offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is a racial slur used against African Americans and is considered deeply disrespectful and derogatory.
- Faggot: This word is also considered highly offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used as a derogatory term for gay men and is considered deeply disrespectful and derogatory.
- Retard: This word is considered highly offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used as a derogatory term for people with intellectual disabilities and is considered deeply disrespectful and derogatory.
- Motherfucker: This word is considered highly offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used as an insult or to express anger or frustration.
- Twat: This word is considered vulgar and offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used as a derogatory term for women and is considered disrespectful.
- Piss: This word is considered vulgar and offensive and is generally not allowed on broadcast television or radio. The word is often used to express anger or frustration.
It’s worth noting that the rules around these words can vary depending on the context and the network. Some cable networks may allow these words to be used with certain restrictions, while others may not allow them at all. Additionally, there may be some exceptions made for news broadcasts or other programs that are reporting on controversial or sensitive topics.
In recent years, there has been some debate over whether these words should still be considered taboo, particularly in the context of artistic expression and freedom of speech. Some argue that the use of these words can be a powerful tool for communicating certain ideas or emotions, while others argue that they are unnecessary and only serve to offend and alienate certain groups of people.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use these words on television or radio is up to the individual networks and the regulatory bodies that oversee them. However, it’s important to remember that these words can be deeply hurtful and offensive to many people, and their use should be approached with sensitivity and respect.