The present contribution focuses on the effects of language dominance / attrition, context of
acquisition, age of onset of learning, frequency of general use of a language and
sociodemographic variables on self-reported language choice for swearing. The analysis is
based on a database to which 1039 multilinguals contributed through a web based
questionnaire. Results suggest that, according to the self-reports, swearing happens most
frequently in the multilinguals’ dominant language. Mixed instruction, an early start in the
learning process, and frequent use of a language all contribute to the choice of that language
for swearing. Sociodemographic variables were not found to have any effect. Frequency of
language choice for swearing was found to be positively correlated with perceived emotional
force of swearwords in that language. Quantitative results based on answers to close-ended
questions corresponded to participants’ responses to open-ended questions
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