That's why I generally start with "lucky" or "fortunate", indeed! But the concept of privilege is a sociological one, and does eventually need to be addressed. Because this isn't about you, or me, it's about the systems that put people in the places where they are and work to keep them there.

"I am incredibly privileged" is not a statement that offends me, because I actually know what it means.

As per your edit: I don't necessarily agree with the level of vitriol, because I have had good interactions with Altman, but I'm not in Danilo's head and I am not part of the groups who YC was (not so much anymore, to their credit) and HN is (routinely even today, despite the very good efforts of people like dang) marginalizing and attacking. HN is a business asset for YC, and if you want somebody's help to improve your business asset, you pay them. Especially when you screwed up in the first place.