Euphemism – Definition and Examples

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This week’s Lesson – Euphemisms

What is Euphemisms?

Euphemisms are agreeable or inoffensive substitutes for expressions that might offend someone or suggest something unpleasant. Euphemisms are unpleasant truths wearing diplomatic cologne.

For example, ‘death penalty’ can be considered as an offensive expression by some. Its euphemism will be ‘capital punishment’. For more commonly used euphemisms see below.

Opposite of Euphemism

Dysphemism is usage of a nasty term for something not-nasty

Common Usage of Euphemisms

Offensive Expressions	Euphemisms
Death	Demise
Pornography	Erotica
Bad breath	Halitosis
Poor	Indigent, destitute
Customer of a prostitute	John
Death rate	Morality rate
Customer	Patron, Guest
Boarder	Paying Guest
Secondhand car, used car	Pre-owned car
Public toilet	Restroom, Amenity center, Comfort station
Lie	Stretch the truth
Destitute, poor	Underprivileged
Kill	Marginalize
Handicapped	Physically challenged

I am sure you will have many more such substitutes which you use in formal environment. Share them with all by commenting below.

Tags: definition, euphemisms