gaffe

A gaffe is an unintentional remark, action, or piece of information that embarrasses its author because it reveals a lack of tact, poor judgment, or a misstatement. Gaffes commonly arise in public settings, such as press conferences, interviews, or speeches, and can provoke media coverage, public criticism, or political consequences. They occur across politics, journalism, entertainment, and business.

Etymology and usage: The word entered English in the 19th century from the French gaffe, meaning a blunder or mistake. It is often contrasted with faux pas, which denotes a social etiquette lapse; a gaffe emphasizes slips of the tongue, misstatements, or errors in judgment rather than purely ceremonial missteps. In everyday language, gaffe is used to describe oversights that reveal biases, ignorance, or insensitivity.

Forms and impact: Gaffes take various forms, including verbal slips that disclose confidential information, misstatements about numbers or policies, or comments about demographics that offend listeners. Nonverbal gaffes—such as inappropriate gestures captured on video—also draw attention. Consequences range from mild embarrassment to lasting reputational damage, shaped by context, intent, and audience. Responses typically involve clarification or apology, and sometimes corrective actions or policy adjustments. In media ecosystems, a single gaffe can shape public perception and influence career or electoral prospects, especially when it becomes a focal point of ongoing coverage.