Are you reading through a 4Chan post, and people are talking about "weaponized autism?" What on earth is that? This post unpacks everything you need to know about this niche idiomatic expression. We'll discuss its origin, meaning, and how to use it in conversation.
Weaponized Autism Meaning
"Weaponized autism" refers to the actions and capabilities of tech geeks frequenting messages boards like Reddit, 4Chan, and 8Kun. These individuals think they are intelligent but make silly mistakes with disastrous results.
The phrase can complement other users on message boards or insult them. You can use the term to describe individuals or groups of people. Weaponized autism can also refer to tech-savvy individuals who can achieve a lot with limited digital resources than giant corporations and governments.
Weaponized Autism Example Usage
Mike: "I love that show, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia; they are such a bunch of cynics."
Tom: "Yeah, I agree; it's like watching weaponized autism."
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"Reading through some of these Reddit threads is like reviewing weaponized autism."
"Sure, 4Chan is barely acceptable, but 8Kun is like weaponized autism."
"Have you heard what Sylvie is trying to do with her project? It's like listening to weaponized autism."
Weaponized Autism Origin
The earliest use of the term "weaponized autism" occurs online on the website "Cracked." The site published a 2010 article, "The 5 Most Ridiculous Martial Arts Movies Ever," describing the superpowers and feats of the protagonist in the 2008 film "Chocolate" as a form of "Weaponized Autism."
The term would remain obscure for nearly five years before emerging again in late December 2014. A user "friedgreenpomatoes" on the FunkyJunk website left a comment reading, "I think we have finally weaponized autism" when responding to an anecdote of a student attacking another student for making the statement, "old Spongebob episodes were garbage."
The phrase would also appear in April 2016. The Redditor, "Fahrenheit_616" uploaded a screenshot gallery from a 4Chan thread where viewers leaked the location of a Syrian Rebel training camp, leading to the Russian government bombing the site a few days later.
The /r/The_Donald comments section saw users describing the unfortunate incident as "weaponized military-grade" autism. YouTuber "dougRiss" uploaded his video "Anime Thesis" in September 2016, speculating that anime is a Japanese creation designed to bring "weaponized autism" to western culture to dumb down society.
The phrase would also experience adoption from right-wing groups in 2017. In March, the term would appear on comment boards after capturing the "He Will Not Divide Us" flag. 4Chan users discovered the flag by tracking star movements and flight patterns and star movements. As a result, other users would say that the operation was a clear example of "weaponized autism."
Phrases Similar to Weaponized Autism
- Wild ideas.
- A unique approach.
Phrases Opposite to Weaponized Autism
- Mass media.
- Mainstream media.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Weaponized autism.
Ways People May Say Weaponized Autism Incorrectly
Some people may use the phrase "weaponized autism" around people with learning disabilities or mental health issues. As a result, some individuals may take offense with your use of the term, much the same as the use of "retard” is no longer acceptable in social communications. Some people may also use the phrase to describe stupidity, which is incorrect.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Weaponized Autism
You can use "weaponized autism" in verbal and online communications. However, it's more common to use it online. The phrase has a niche use, and some people might not understand what you're saying if they don't understand message board culture. Surprisingly, the use of the word "autism" in the phrase refers to intelligence more than idiocy.