[Why You Should Avoid Calling Someone 'Yellow' in English]-[AEE 2491: Why Should You Not Call Someone Yellow in English?]

All Ears English Podcast · B1 · 2025-10-07

📋 Summary

Navigating Cowardice and Fear in English: Beyond the Term 'Yellow'

In the latest episode of the All Ears English podcast, hosts Michelle Kaplan and Aubrey Carter address a listener's inquiry regarding the term "yellow." While the term appears frequently in classic Westerns and older media to describe someone who is "cowardly," the hosts provide essential guidance on why modern English speakers should avoid using it entirely.

The Problem with 'Yellow'

Though often used historically to mean "not brave," the term "yellow" carries a problematic history. Michelle and Aubrey define it as a "discriminatory term" and a "pejorative." They explain that a pejorative is a "word expressing contempt or disapproval," often rooted in racial or prejudicial origins. Because of these historical connotations, it is no longer acceptable in casual or professional conversation. Instead, the hosts suggest several alternatives that convey the same meaning without the offensive baggage.

Modern Alternatives for Describing Fear

Depending on the context and the severity of the situation, the hosts offer four distinct ways to describe someone who is afraid or lacking courage:

1. Spineless

This is a "heavy" word used to describe someone who is "lacking courage" or "lacking moral strength." It is not typically used in a playful manner; calling someone "spineless" is a serious insult, implying that the person failed to stand up for themselves or others in a situation where they should have been brave. For instance, one might say, "He was too spineless to speak up against the unfair rules."

2. Scaredy Cat

In contrast to "spineless," a "scaredy cat" is a much lighter, more playful term for someone who is "easily frightened." This is often used regarding trivial fears, such as horror movies, haunted houses, or roller coasters. It is a common way to tease friends without causing genuine offense.

3. Chicken

"Chicken" is a versatile term that can function as both a noun and an adjective. You might ask someone, "Are you a chicken?" or describe yourself by saying, "I'm way too chicken." It occupies a middle ground—it can be used playfully, but it still directly questions someone’s bravery.

4. Chicken Out

This is a common "phrasal verb" used to describe the act of deciding "not to do something because you're afraid." It is a very natural way to express that you backed out of a commitment at the last minute, such as: "I was going to try bungee jumping, but I chickened out at the last second."

Connection Through Vulnerability

The hosts conclude that while these words describe fear, using them in a playful way can actually serve as a "connection moment." By admitting to being a "scaredy cat" or "chickening out" of a scary activity, speakers show vulnerability. The key takeaway is to be mindful of the weight of your words: reserve "spineless" for serious situations involving moral courage, and stick to "scaredy cat" or "chicken" when you are simply poking fun at a friend's fear of a haunted house.

🎯Key Sentences

I'm excited to record with you.

It's always fun when we get to join each other in the mic.

I can't believe how often this happens, actually, right?

We're trying to be more respectful of other people's culture, language.

It happens.

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📝Key Phrases

hold up

dive in

throw around

spineless

scaredy cat

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📖 Transcript

This is an All Ears English podcast, episode 2491.

Why should you not call someone yellow in English?

Welcome to the All Ears English podcast, downloaded more than 200 million times.

Are you feeling stuck with your English?

We'll show you how to become fearless and fluent by focusing on connection, not perfection.

With your American hosts, Michelle Kaplan, the New York radio girl, and Aubrey Carter, the IELTS whiz, coming to you from Arizona and New York City, USA.

Or study on the web version →