Is homosexual a bad word

Answer 1

It depends on context, but generally speaking, the word "homosexual" should be avoided when referring to human beings, except possibly when discussing human sexual behavior from a clinical or scientific point of view. It should never been used as a noun.

The problem with this word is that it evoke a connotation of the time when same-sex attraction was seen as a mental illness.

However, there are gay people who don't mind this word, or even prefer it. The best thing to do, if you are unsure is to ask. Using the word "gay" is an appropriate substitute for the word homosexual (when talking about human beings).

Answer 2

No, it is not. However, it is sometimes used, by bigots, as a form of insult.