Is 'troll' an overused insult on the internet?

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The term "troll" is considered overused and often misapplied in online discussions, where it is frequently used as an insult against those expressing dissenting opinions. Many participants express frustration with the prevalence of the term across various forums, suggesting it detracts from meaningful discourse. There is a call for a new term to replace "troll," as its current usage has become a catch-all for disagreement rather than a specific label for disruptive behavior. The historical context of the word is also explored, with references to its mythological origins and the evolution of its meaning in the digital age. Overall, the conversation highlights a desire for clearer communication and a reduction in the misuse of the term.
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Don't you think "troll" is such an overused word on the internet?

You say something someone doesn't agree with, and they accuse you of being a troll.

It's used as an insult.

Trolls use the word "troll".

I think the person who invented that word should think about the damage he has done to the internet. No matter what forum or chat I go into, I always see someone accusing someone else of being a troll.

Somebody has got to invent a new word.

In fact, anyone that can't think of a better word to use deserves anything he gets from a real troll. It should be a censored word on forums since it's used on every thread on some forums.

:frown:

I can't stand to see that word again.
 
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Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

So, what's the history of that word anyways? I don't remember seeing it during the 90's when the internet wasn't as common.

The good old days...
 
Ummmmmmmmmmmm, I have never witnessed someone being callled a troll online. Isnt a troll a slimy Norse mythological creature. Or a fairytale character who lived under a bridge and didnt like billy goats gruff. What is being a "troll"?
 
troll: noun, one who trolls; verb, to fish by dragging bait or a lure at low speed --- hence, the "internet troll" who fishes for attention by dragging controversial topics through groups of people on forums.
 
Ummmmmmmmmmmm, I have never witnessed someone being callled a troll online. Isnt a troll a slimy Norse mythological creature. Or a fairytale character who lived under a bridge and didnt like billy goats gruff. What is being a "troll"?

If you spend enough time on the idiot, you'll see it used a lot.

Annoying as hell. They've got to find a replacement. Luckily it doesn't appear that much on this site.
 
Trolls were not,in general, slimy, but they usually had a couple of firs growing behind their ears.
When exposed to the sun, most of them were turned to stone (that's why we have so many mountains in Norway!).
In a similar vein, perhaps one should expose the modern day trolls to piercing rays of logic?
 
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