Is 'troll' an overused insult on the internet?

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In summary, the word "troll" is heavily overused on the internet as an insult. It is used to accuse someone of deliberately causing trouble or seeking attention. Some people think it has caused damage to the internet and a new word should be invented. The origins of the word are from Norse mythology and it referred to a mythical creature. However, it has now taken on a new meaning in the online world.
  • #1
Dagenais
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Don't you think "troll" is such an overused word on the internet?

You say something someone doesn't agree with, and they accuse you of being a troll.

It's used as an insult.

Trolls use the word "troll".

I think the person who invented that word should think about the damage he has done to the internet. No matter what forum or chat I go into, I always see someone accusing someone else of being a troll.

Somebody has got to invent a new word.

In fact, anyone that can't think of a better word to use deserves anything he gets from a real troll. It should be a censored word on forums since it's used on every thread on some forums.

:frown:

I can't stand to see that word again.
 
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  • #2
troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,troll,v :wink:
 
  • #3
Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

So, what's the history of that word anyways? I don't remember seeing it during the 90's when the internet wasn't as common.

The good old days...
 
  • #4
Ummmmmmmmmmmm, I have never witnessed someone being callled a troll online. Isnt a troll a slimy Norse mythological creature. Or a fairytale character who lived under a bridge and didnt like billy goats gruff. What is being a "troll"?
 
  • #5
troll: noun, one who trolls; verb, to fish by dragging bait or a lure at low speed --- hence, the "internet troll" who fishes for attention by dragging controversial topics through groups of people on forums.
 
  • #6
Ummmmmmmmmmmm, I have never witnessed someone being callled a troll online. Isnt a troll a slimy Norse mythological creature. Or a fairytale character who lived under a bridge and didnt like billy goats gruff. What is being a "troll"?

If you spend enough time on the idiot, you'll see it used a lot.

Annoying as hell. They've got to find a replacement. Luckily it doesn't appear that much on this site.
 
  • #7
Trolls were not,in general, slimy, but they usually had a couple of firs growing behind their ears.
When exposed to the sun, most of them were turned to stone (that's why we have so many mountains in Norway!).
In a similar vein, perhaps one should expose the modern day trolls to piercing rays of logic?
 

FAQ: Is 'troll' an overused insult on the internet?

Is the term "troll" overused in online communities?

Yes, the term "troll" is often overused in online communities. It is often used to label anyone who disagrees or has a different opinion, even if they are not intentionally trying to provoke or upset others.

Why is the term "troll" used so frequently?

The term "troll" is used frequently because it has become a popular term in online culture to describe someone who intentionally stirs up trouble or provokes others for their own amusement.

Are there any negative effects of overusing the term "troll"?

Yes, there can be negative effects of overusing the term "troll." It can create a toxic online environment where individuals are quick to label and attack others, leading to further conflicts and misunderstandings.

How can we avoid using the term "troll" too loosely?

To avoid using the term "troll" too loosely, it's important to consider the intent and behavior of the individual before labeling them as a troll. It's also helpful to have open and respectful communication to address any conflicts or disagreements instead of immediately resorting to name-calling.

Is there a better term to use instead of "troll"?

Some online communities have started to use alternative terms such as "griefer" or "spammer" to describe individuals who intentionally disrupt the community. However, it's important to remember that labeling someone as a troll or any other term can be harmful and it's best to approach conflicts with empathy and understanding.

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