Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[nawee]

Hello,

Is it impolite to use the word "knickers" in a conversation with an acquaintance?

Is "underwear" or "underpants" or "panties" (US) a more polite option?

Thank you.

Nawee

[IanT]

For most people, in British English, it's informal, but not at all impolite.

But if you're not sure, "underwear" is safe and general.

Hope helps,
Ian
_________________
Please note: all my answers here refer to British English.

www.EnglishSwearing.com All the bad words and how to use them!

www.throdworld.com "Not Averse" A collection of silly verses to make you happy.

[nawee]

Thank you for your reply.

But "underwear" means both the top and the bottom parts of clothing worn underneath, right? Is there a "safe" word for just the bottom part?

Thank you.

Nawee

[Tao]

[quote="nawee"]Thank you for your reply.

But "underwear" means both the top and the bottom parts of clothing worn underneath, right? Is there a "safe" word for just the bottom part?

Thank you.

Nawee[/quote]

Many people use "underwear" to mean their tightie whities or boxers, whatever... and use "undershirt" for the "top". Try undershorts… Knickers is definitely British.
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TAO

[IanT]

In England people will generally understand underwear to mean lower body clothing.
Best wishes,
Ian.
_________________
Please note: all my answers here refer to British English.

www.EnglishSwearing.com All the bad words and how to use them!

www.throdworld.com "Not Averse" A collection of silly verses to make you happy.