Euphemism Explained: Meaning & Real Examples

Lesson Overview

• What Is Euphemism?
• How to Use Euphemism in a Sentence
• How to Identify Euphemism in a Sentence
• Examples of Euphemism
• Euphemism Assessment

Ever heard someone say "powder your nose" instead of "go to the bathroom"? That's a euphemism! It's like using a secret code to talk about things that might be uncomfortable.  The word "euphemism" comes from the Greek word (euphemismos), which means "good speech".

What Is Euphemism?

A euphemism is a figure of speech where a mild or less direct word or expression is used in place of one that may be considered harsh, unpleasant, or offensive.

Euphemisms help soften the impact of certain topics, especially when discussing sensitive subjects like death, illness, or personal matters.

Take this Quiz :

What are euphemisms and hyperboles?

How to Use Euphemism in a Sentence

While euphemisms can be helpful, it's important to use them wisely.

1. To Avoid Being Rude:
   • Instead of saying, "You're really short," you could say, "You're vertically challenged."
     
2. To Soften Bad News:
   • Instead of saying, "You failed the test," you could say, "You didn't quite meet the expectations."
     

3. To Be More Polite:
   • Instead of saying, "You're old," you could say, "You're seasoned."
     
4. To Maintain Privacy:

Instead of saying, "I don't feel comfortable discussing that," you could say, "That's a personal matter I'd rather not talk about."

How to Identify Euphemism in a Sentence

Suppose you're reading a story. You come across a sentence that says, "The old man passed away peacefully."

• What does this mean? It means the old man died.
• Why didn't the author just say "died"? The author used a euphemism, "passed away," to make the sad news sound less harsh.
  

1. Compare the Phrase to a More Direct Statement:
   • "Passed away" is a euphemism for "died."
   • "Between jobs" is a euphemism for "unemployed."
     
2. Look for Words That Soften the Blow:
   • Words like "passed," "let go," or "economically challenged" often signal a euphemism.
     
3. Consider the Context:
   • If someone says, "She's a bit plump," in a mean tone, it's likely a euphemism for "she's overweight."
     
     

Examples of Euphemism

Euphemism Assessment

Let's test your knowledge of euphemisms!

1. The Polite Way to Say "Fired":
   
   • A. Canned
   • B. Cooked
   • C. Let Go
     
2. A Fancy Way to Say "Bathroom":
   
   • A. Restroom
   • B. Powder Room
   • C. Water Closet
     
3. A Softer Way to Say "Died":
   
   • A. Passed Away
   • B. Kicked the Bucket
   • C. Bought the Farm
     
4. A Polite Way to Say "Old":
   
   • A. Ancient
   • B. Senior Citizen
   • C. Wrinkly
     
5. A Gentle Way to Say "Poor":
   
   • A. Broke
   • B. Less Fortunate
   • C. Impoverished

Answers:

1. C. Let Go
2. A. Restroom
3. A. Passed Away
4. B. Senior Citizen
5. B. Less Fortunate