Nicknames can be a fun and endearing way to address friends and family, but what happens when a nickname unintentionally offends someone? Our protagonist, a 17-year-old, has been called Midge (like the bug) since childhood. However, a classmate with dwarfism finds the nickname offensive and demands that it be changed. Is Midge in the wrong for not changing their nickname? Let’s dive into the story.
A Lifelong Nickname

The Bug Nickname Sticks

A Sensitive Issue Arises

Classmate’s Concern

Midge Explains the Bug Connection

A Tearful Confrontation

Jane’s Emotional Plea

Upset and Anxious

Edit: Pronunciation Clarification ️

The Bug Nickname Dilemma: What’s the Verdict?
Midge, a 17-year-old, has been using their bug-inspired nickname for as long as they can remember. However, a classmate named Jane, who has dwarfism, finds the nickname offensive and demands that it be changed. Midge tries to explain the bug connection, but Jane remains upset. With emotions running high, is Midge in the wrong for not changing their nickname? Let’s see what the internet thinks of this situation…
Supportive comment receives overwhelming upvotes.

Bug nickname triggers girl, but NTA. Seek expert help.

Defending the nickname ‘Midge’ as not offensive.

Unusual names can be real names too. NTA.

Respect personal freedoms, even if it means losing a friend.

Normal nickname causing PTSD? Include her in your group

Bug-based nickname sparks debate, but commenter defends it.

Empathetic response to nickname controversy, promotes understanding.

Validating nickname, acknowledging trauma, and encouraging self-growth.

Discovering Midge Ure: A silver lining to offensive nicknames.

Defending the nickname Midge with a touch of sarcasm
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Using a similar sounding word to a slur doesn’t make it one. NTA

Uncommon name sparks offense, but commenter is NTA.

Don’t let others make your name about them

Debating the offensiveness of similar sounding words and nicknames.

Be a friend and stand up against bullying.

Considerate suggestion to avoid potential harm.
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Support for Jane, but asking for a name change is unreasonable

Midge as a nickname, NTA. Archie comics and Simpsons reference.

Debate over ‘midget’ as a slur sparks heated response.

Bug nickname causes controversy, commenter defends with NTA.

Embracing nicknames: NTA for choosing preferred name, Midge approves

“Midge” has historical roots, not offensive.

Defending a nickname: NTA, being triggered shows the problem.

Defending the nickname: age and context matter.

Teen defends nickname against offensive accusations with grace.

Short girl tries to control teen’s nickname, gets shut down

Defending freedom of speech: NTA comment section stays civil

Defending the nickname ‘Midge’ as not associated with the slur.
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Choosing a nickname is not always in our control

Defending the name Midge and calling out the need for therapy

Supportive comment recommends therapy for misguided friend’s trauma
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Empathize with her, don’t use the nickname in that class.

Listen to her concerns, but it’s ultimately your choice. NAH

Acceptance vs Control: A Debate on Nicknames

Defending her nickname: reasonable or unreasonable?

Short and sweet: defending the use of ‘midget’ as non-offensive

The debate over a seemingly innocent nickname

Don’t force your trauma on others. NTA for sure.
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Common nickname sparks no issues, bugs are common in Australia

Standing up for oneself against hurtful nicknames

Bullying victim told to ‘get over herself’ for defending nickname

Personal nickname deemed NTA, no need to please others.

Bullying victim’s name and nickname unrelated. NTA.

Midge’s nickname deemed not offensive. Toy aisle controversy avoided.

Defending a harmless nickname against insecure accuser.

NTA defends use of word ‘midget’, but acknowledges its origin.
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Nostalgic comment about Midge doll brings innocence to controversy

Midge is not midget. NTA. You’re fine.

Defending the nickname with a touch of sarcasm

User defends teen’s nickname and shares their own reaction

Defending a nickname: NTA, no need to change it

Acceptable nickname or not? NTA says it’s not offensive

Standing up for oneself is important

Supportive comment suggests therapy for friend with nickname trauma.
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Empathetic comment acknowledges personal struggles and suggests therapy for healing.
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Embrace your nickname, you can’t change it. NTA

Defending a harmless nickname with NTA verdict

Midge is a common nickname, not offensive.

Nostalgic connection to Barbie’s friend sparks harmless comment

Defending the nickname ‘Midge’ and calling out overreaction.

Defending a nickname, offering advice, and wishing good luck

70’s called, they want their name back. NTA wins.
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Choosing a nickname may require empathy and compromise. NTA.

Using a personal nickname that has a happy origin isn’t offensive

Debate over a nickname: NTA suggests therapy for girlfriend.

Old-timey nickname sparks controversy, but commenters say NAH.
