I do not think that word means what you think it means.

[gemfyre]

I notice that more and more people are using the word "paranoid" when they simply mean "worried".

Usually this turns up in health communities. "I'm paranoid I may have so-and-so." No, you're not experiencing an irrational feeling of persecution, you're just worried, so just say that.

*sigh*

Comments

[pixidance.livejournal.com]

I hear you! That drives me batty, kinda like the difference between eager and anxious :P

[thelastdon.livejournal.com]

Kinda like how people are substituting "your" for "you're".
The English language is going to hell, and I blame the government for encouraging the stupids to breed.

[aurickandrien.livejournal.com]

Maybe they're anthropomorphising the problem and feel that they might be being persecuted by the world in general rather than by an actual physical entity?

...

Or not...

[odindeathcrush.livejournal.com]

i dunno...i bet a ton of people feel some plain and simple virus, let's say, means that the world is out to get them.
i'd say if someone tells me they are paranoid, i'm gonna hear what they are saying, for whatever reason, (and unless they are a good friend) smile, and back away.

[sunrise-raver.livejournal.com]

Perhaps people feel they get more sympathy with a stronger word like paranoia? Perhaps it makes them feel safe to be labelled and makes what they feel acceptable and understandable?

Or perhaps they're just drama kings or queens of course :P