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Our Evolving Language: How do you define "edgy?"

By
Services for Real Estate Pros with Marte Cliff Copywriting

According to my thesaurus, "edgy" means "nervous, on edge, uptight, anxious, restless, and ill at ease."

But that's not how the word is often used in contemporary conversation, in blogs, and in marketing.

I've seen all sorts of things referred to as "edgy." Cars, clothing, decor, literature, and marketing to name a few - and I'm sure the speaker/writer didn't mean those things were nervous. 

When I see or hear it, I have some vague idea of what the person meant, but can't quite put my finger on it. Does it mean it's slightly "off" somehow? Or perhaps a bit racy? Or maybe just this side of illegal? Maybe it means "a bit daring." just wondering

In Perry Marshall's post: "Why Google will now un-ban your Adwords account," he refers to "edgy" websites as those involving "legally turbulent categories like alternative health, diets and business opportunities." It annoyed me a little that he mentioned alternative health alongside 2 categories which obviously attract snake oil salesmen, but that's just because I believe in alternative health. I know it also attracts snake oil salesmen - I'd just rather not belive it.

But back to meaning. Did he mean "Could be honest - maybe not?"

Like so many other "old" words that have taken on new meaning simply because someone started using them in a different context, "edgy" needs a clear definition.

So - What does it mean to YOU?

Comments (4)

Debbie Gartner
The Flooring Girl - White Plains, NY
The Flooring Girl & Blog Stylist -Dynamo Marketers

I think it depends on context, but usually I think about the later description...pushing the envelop...being on the edge, trendy.

Maybe ask William Safire. LOL.

Oct 19, 2012 10:46 PM
Rob D. Shepherd
RETIRED - Florence, OR
RETIRED

 In my mind "edgy" Meant questionable item or action being taken.

Oct 19, 2012 11:27 PM
Mary Douglas
United Country Ponderosa Realty, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado - Red Feather Lakes, CO
REALTOR, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Edgy: sharp, quick, maybe a little different/outside the norm, on the leading edge

Oct 21, 2012 02:33 AM
Marte Cliff
Marte Cliff Copywriting - Priest River, ID
Your real estate writer

Debbie - Yes, this one does seem to depend upon the context. So, that leaves the definition/interpretation up to the reader / listener.

Rob's definition sounds negative, while...

Mary's definition sounds more on the positive side to me.

Oct 21, 2012 02:40 AM