Word of the Day: Euphemism

Euphemism (yū’fə-mĭz’əm) is a polite or agreeable word that is used to replace a possibly offensive or harsh one. It can also refer to a word or expression that under estimates the real state of things.

But after the September 11th attacks, its Self-Defence Forces (SDF is a euphemism for its armed forces that gets round its pacifist-sounding constitution) have been deployed in much more determined fashion. (The Economist)

The British have some rather wonderful euphemisms. Try “one sandwich short of a picnic” for “crazy” or “NQOCD” instead of “not quite our class dear.” And how about “sugar on your strawberries,” meaning that senility may be just around the corner? (NY Times)

Related Articles

• Word of the Day: Wax
• Word of the Day: Conundrum
• Word of the Day: Synergy

Share

Subscribe to Receive our Articles and Exercises via Email

• You will improve your English in only 5 minutes per day, guaranteed!
• Subscribers get access to our exercise archives, writing courses, writing jobs and much more!
• You'll also get three bonus ebooks completely free!

Try It Free Now