Why Is Oriental Offensive Understanding The Terms History

The word “Oriental” once appeared in everyday language to describe people, cultures, and goods from East and Southeast Asia. Today, it is widely regarded as outdated and offensive when applied to people. Understanding why requires a closer look at its historical roots, how it has been used in colonial and racial contexts, and how language evolves to reflect respect and accuracy. This shift isn’t about political correctness—it’s about acknowledging dignity, agency, and the lived experiences of Asian and Asian American communities.

The Colonial Origins of \"Oriental\"

The term “Oriental” derives from the Latin word *oriens*, meaning “rising” or “east.” Historically, it referred broadly to anything from the East, particularly regions east of Europe. During the 18th and 19th centuries, European powers expanded their empires into Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. As part of this expansion, Western scholars developed a field known as “Orientalism,” which claimed to study Eastern cultures—but often through a lens of superiority and exoticism.

Edward Said, a Palestinian-American literary theorist, famously critiqued this worldview in his 1978 book Orientalism. He argued that the West constructed a distorted image of the “Orient” as mysterious, backward, and sensual—contrasted with the rational, modern, and civilized West. These stereotypes were not neutral observations but tools of domination that justified colonial rule and cultural imperialism.

“Orientalism is fundamentally a political doctrine willed over the Orient because the Orient was weaker than the West.” — Edward Said, Orientalism

This framework reduced diverse civilizations—from China and Japan to India and Persia—to a single, monolithic “Other.” The label “Oriental” became synonymous with foreignness, strangeness, and inferiority—especially when applied to people.

From Objects to People: When Language Crosses the Line

While “Oriental” may still be acceptable in certain contexts—such as “Oriental rugs” or “Oriental medicine”—its application to human beings is problematic. Using an adjective rooted in colonial discourse to describe entire populations flattens identity and perpetuates dehumanizing categorization.

For example, calling someone an “Oriental person” implies they are defined by geography rather than individuality. It echoes a time when Asians were seen as curiosities, laborers, or threats—never as equals. In contrast, terms like “Asian” or “Asian American” are self-defined, geographically accurate, and preferred by the communities themselves.

Tip: When referring to people, always use “Asian” or “Asian American” instead of “Oriental.” Reserve “Oriental” for non-human contexts only—if at all.

A Timeline of Shifting Language Norms

The rejection of “Oriental” in favor of more respectful terminology has been decades in the making. Below is a timeline highlighting key moments in this linguistic evolution:

1. Early 1900s: “Oriental” is commonly used in U.S. immigration law and census categories, often lumping together Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and other groups under one umbrella.
2. 1960s–1970s: Civil rights movements empower Asian American activists to challenge discriminatory language and demand recognition of their identities.
3. 1980s: Academic and advocacy circles increasingly reject “Oriental” as racially charged; “Asian American” gains prominence thanks to scholar-activists like Yuji Ichioka.
4. 2016: President Barack Obama signs the Removal of References to ‘Oriental’ From Federal Law, replacing the term in official U.S. statutes with “Asian American.”
5. Present Day: Major institutions—including media outlets, universities, and healthcare organizations—have adopted “Asian” as the standard term.

Why Context Matters: A Case Study

In 2015, a California city council debated whether to retire the name “Oriental Plaza,” a local shopping center. Some business owners resisted the change, arguing the name had historical value and brought foot traffic. However, community advocates pointed out that younger generations found the term alienating, especially in a neighborhood with growing Southeast Asian populations.

After months of dialogue, the council voted to rename the area “Pacific Gateway Marketplace.” The decision wasn’t about erasing history—it was about aligning public language with present-day values of inclusion. One resident noted, “We’re not asking to forget the past. We’re asking to be seen as we are now—not as someone else’s idea of the ‘mysterious East.’”

This case illustrates how even well-intentioned uses of outdated language can carry unintended harm. Public spaces reflect societal norms, and updating names and labels can affirm belonging.

Do’s and Don’ts: A Practical Guide

Do	Don’t
Use “Asian” or “Asian American” when referring to people.	Call individuals “Oriental.”
Follow the lead of communities on preferred terminology.	Assume all Asian-descended people share the same culture or identity.
Use “Oriental” cautiously, if at all—even for objects (e.g., consider “East Asian ceramics”).	Defend the use of “Oriental” as harmless tradition without considering impact.
Educate others respectfully when you hear outdated terms used.	Shame or confront individuals aggressively; focus on growth, not guilt.

Expert Perspectives on Language and Identity

Linguistic shifts often meet resistance, but experts emphasize that language reflects power dynamics. Dr. Jane Park, a sociocultural anthropologist specializing in Asian American studies, explains:

“Words like ‘Oriental’ weren’t just descriptive—they were part of a system that excluded Asians from full participation in society. Replacing them isn’t censorship; it’s correction.” — Dr. Jane Park, UCLA Department of Anthropology

Similarly, journalist and author Jay Caspian Kang argues that precise language helps dismantle stereotypes. In his writing, he notes that calling someone “Asian” acknowledges their specificity—whether Korean, Tamil, Hmong, or Desi—while “Oriental” erases those distinctions under a vague, foreignized label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it ever okay to use the word \"Oriental\"?

In very limited contexts—such as historical references, art classifications (e.g., Oriental carpets), or established brand names—it may appear. However, when discussing people, cultures, or modern communities, it should be avoided. Even in object-related uses, consider whether more accurate alternatives exist (e.g., “East Asian rug”).

Why do some older Asian Americans still use \"Oriental\"?

Generational differences play a role. Some individuals grew up when “Oriental” was the standard term and may not associate it with the same negative connotations as younger generations. However, many within the community have also shifted toward “Asian American” as awareness grows. Respect personal preference, but recognize broader trends toward inclusive language.

Does avoiding \"Oriental\" really make a difference?

Yes. Language shapes perception. Studies in social psychology show that using dehumanizing or outdated labels—even subtly—affects how people are treated in hiring, healthcare, and education. Choosing respectful terms fosters equity and signals that everyone belongs.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Awareness

The journey from “Oriental” to “Asian” is more than a semantic update—it’s a reflection of social progress. Recognizing why certain words wound allows us to communicate with greater empathy and precision. Language is not static; it evolves as societies confront injustice and strive for inclusivity.

As individuals, we can contribute by listening to affected communities, questioning inherited terminology, and making informed choices in speech and writing. Small changes in vocabulary can lead to larger shifts in attitude.

🚀 Ready to promote respectful language? Share this article, update your organization’s style guide, or start a conversation about inclusive communication in your workplace or school. Every step counts.