Idiom "used a four letter word"

[chaza]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #217 "American English Idioms", question 8

Tommy got into real trouble at school today. He used a four-letter word in the classroom. What is the meaning of 'used a four letter word?' .........

(a) pledged to be a good boy
(b) used bad language
(c) didn't keep his promise
(d) didn't follow his teacher's instructions

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #217 "American English Idioms", answer 8

Tommy got into real trouble at school today. He used a four-letter word in the classroom. What is the meaning of 'used a four letter word?' used bad language

Correct answer: (b) used bad language
_________________________

Please explain for me: used a four letter word!

chaza

[Conchita]

As already explained above, using a four-letter word means using bad language. This term applies to short swear words (blasphemous or obscene words used as a curse or to show annoyance), which usually have four letters.