Not too long ago, the word “basic” did not come with connotations of lattes, leggings, or any other items loved by women. The word “basic” was used to describe a mixture that was not acidic or, in every day conversation, as a standard model. The definition of basic according to Merriam Webster, who gets the final word in my opinion, is “of, relating to, or forming the base or essence;” ‘fundamental’ is a synonym”. Then, at some point in time, someone decided that women did not have enough labels, and felt the need to create another one that would stereotype and label all women simply because there happen to be some inventions so great, that many women like them. Alas, the word “basic”, with the connotations of the phrase “basic bitch,” was born.
I know I am not alone in this view, as many women feel insulted when called “basic”. Intentional or not, it’s an accusation of being stereotypical and boring. The sexist and ignorant origins of the adjective as used in this manner are undeniable. Since when did making fun of people because of what they like and wear become acceptable? Are we bullies in 6th grade again? Furthermore, why did we as a society buy into criticizing people based on liking things that many people like because they are actually good items? People don’t make fun of leggings or lattes, but combine them, and suddenly you’ve got a “basic” girl who can’t possibly be interesting or anything but typical.
What if the roles were reversed, and we applied this principle to men? I’ve heard talk about the “basic guy” a few times, but it is nowhere near the level that connects the word “basic” to girl/bitch. It seems that men, with their Sperry’s, Vineyard Vines, and chubbies are freely allowed to like quality products and not have to worry about being labeled because of it. Just saying.
With that, freely and proudy enjoy your pumpkin spice lattes (I personally prefer chai), your leggings – which are a savior from September to March – and all the things that women love because we’re not basic, we just know what we like.