Quote: zooo @ August 2 2009, 11:34 PM BSTMy brother tells me off when I use that word.
Yeah, it can be a tricky one. I get the same when I use the expression retarded or tard for short. It's especially horrible when you're out with a group of people and one of them has a family member who's mentally handicapped.
Most of the time, they'll know you're not talking about anyone in particular and they'll join in with the joke. Other times people have a strop - but usually they're not actually offended, they're just seeking attention or in my case...they just hate my guts.
Oh well, can't walk on eggshells your whole life worrying if you might offend someone.