Do you find the phrase “no homo” offensive?

“Yes. It’s a little too harsh for me. I don’t like the sound of it. I don’t see any reason for abbreviating ‘homosexual’ into ‘homo.’ It shows a lack of respect for the individual. I’d feel bad for any gay person who has to hear that.”

“Yes. I’m teaching my son not to say that word. I can’t envision the word ‘homo’ making anyone feel good, so why use it? I don’t want him saying something that makes another person feel diminished.”

“No. I’m not hypersensitive about things like that. I’m not going to call someone out on it and make a scene. There are bigger issues to get upset about, instead of kids in North Philly on a basketball court saying, ‘No homo.’”

“Not necessarily. Sometimes it’s needed for people to clarify their sexual orientation. And in that context, I wouldn’t feel offended. Personally, I wouldn’t say it. But I also wouldn’t prejudge someone who does. Their intentions might not be to say something derogatory.”