Conversational Metaphors: Rape vs. Other Bad Stuff

[Rii]

Some folks are of the view that the metaphorical use of the word 'rape' is distasteful, inconsiderate, or otherwise objectionable. Yet we often employ language suggesting non-sexual violence metaphorically without similar objections being heard. Is there a rational basis for this difference in perception, or is it merely that we are desensitised to non-sexual violence to a greater degree than sexual violence?