Why Is Calling Something (or Someone) “Tasteless” an Insult?

The Color Taste of Water

Water usually doesn’t have a taste, and people don’t object to that.

Ditto for celery.

So why is calling something — like a comment, a work of art, or an article of clothing — “tasteless” a dis?

“Taste-Free” vs. “Tasteless”

Clearly, what the speaker intends to say is, “in bad taste.”

In the same category:  “I could care less” vs. “I couldn’t care less” (the latter usage is correct).

See also, “Why is Calling Someone a ‘Piece of Work’ an Insult?“; “You’re . . You’re . . Such an Almond” (Huh??)”; “What’s the Past Tense of Sight See?”; “Landmark — or Watermark?”; “Dried vs. MORE Dried Apricots“;“Wild and Crazy” (vs. Conventional) Fruit; and “What’s the Opposite of ‘Untold Riches?



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