Stories that use these words are much more likely than others to be involved in libel suits. Calling someone a “coward” or a “fool” in print is a quick way to learn more about the judicial system than you really want to know. Here’s a list of “danger words” compiled by Bruce Sanford, counsel for the Society of Professional Journalists.
Adulterer
Bankrupt
Blackmailer
Booze-hound
Coward
Crook
Deadbeat
Drug addict
Drunkard
Ex-convict
Fool
Gay
Groveling office seeker
Illegitimate
Informer
Kept woman
Nazi
Peeping tom
Rascal
Scandalmonger
Scoundrel
Seducer
Shyster
Skunk
Sneak
Sold his influence
Stool pigeon
Stuffed the ballot box
Suicide
Suspect
Swindler
Thief
Unethical
Unmarried mother
Unprofessional
Unsound mind
Unworthy of credit
Villain
Does this mean you never use the word “villian” or “thief” in a story? Of course not. This list is simply a tool to help you identify possible problem areas so you can be sure that you’re saying exactly what you mean to say, and can think about whether you’re ready to defend your words in court.
