&gt; <i>Because there remain a generation that are still offended by them, we should probably lighten up on them</i><p>You’re missing the point.  That is <i>not</i> the reason.  The reason why one shouldn’t use the term “Gay”, even if one doesn’t mean anything actually homophobic by it, is that by using the term, one encourages <i>actual homophobes</i> and reinforces their belief that their hatred and&#x2F;or fear of homosexuals is normal.  <i>You</i> might think that everyone who hears you knows you don’t mean “Gay” as a homophobic slur, but I can assure you ­— you would be wrong.