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* 
Indicates that the expression, while not forming part of the standard language, is used by all educated speakers in a relaxed situation, but would not be used in a formal
essay or letter,or on an occasion when the speaker wishes to impress.

** 
Indicates that the expression is used by some but not all educated speakers in a very relaxed situation. Such words should be handled with extreme care by the non-native speaker unless he or she is very fluent in the language and is very sure of his company.

*** 
Danger ! Such words are liable to offend in any situation, and therefore are to be avoided by the
non-native speaker. We don’t recommend that you try these, but at least you’ll know what those colourful French folk are saying about us. If you want these *** words you’ll have to blag, buy or steal a copy of
Merde!