The distinction was made by the plaintiff in the case based on the argument that it was only what the woman who claimed harrassment felt that could serve as a basis for harm.
IIRC, the court bought the argument based on my sensitivity training.
The case under discussion here is much different as it allows no defense; the judge will probably find in favor of the defendants and counsel the use of universal caution in the future for any non-professional speech.
Personally, I think that if these sisters were truly offended, they are far too fearful for this anxious age.