Debate is running high in the United States over the growing use of the defamatory "N-word" to describe blacks.

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Since the rise of gangsta rap in hip-hop in the early 1990s, the use of the often-called "ugliest word in the English language" has become accepted and justified in some circles, especially among teens and those in the entertainment community, ABC News reported.

But, despite the best intentions, critics argue that using the N-word, particularly in entertainment, does more harm than good and gives the impression that it's no longer offensive in every context.

Mark Chapman, professor of African-American studies at Fordham University, said he believes the rap and hip-hop community could play a key role in eliminating the use of the N-word, as evidenced by the experience of a late black comedian.

"Richard Pryor used the N-word all the time in his routines," said Chapman. "Then he went to Africa and he said, 'I will never use that word again.'"