Types of Euphemisms is to soften an expression
How and Why We Use euphemisms :
Euphemisms can take different forms, but they all involve substituting a word or phrase considered to be less offensive than another. The substituted word might, for example, be viewed as a less coarse choice, as when dang or darn is used instead of damn or damned. Or it might replace a word viewed as insulting to a religious figure, such as the various euphemisms for God (gad, gadzooks, gosh). A euphemism may also consist of an indirect softening phrase that is substituted for the straightforward naming of something unpalatable. Thus, we hear of people being “let go” rather than “fired”; civilians killed in war described as “collateral damage”; or . “passed away, “given up the ghost,” or “joined one’s ancestors.
Some euphemisms are used in order to make a blunt or unpleasant truth seem less harsh.
Other examples of euphemisms that fall into this category include:
- Passed away instead of died
- Correctional facility instead of jail
- Departed instead of died
- Pregnancy termination instead of abortion
- On the streets instead of homeless
Examples of euphemism in a sentence
Invigorating” is the euphemism we use most often to describe the chilly waters off the coast, but knowledgeable Maine boaters know where to find the warmer, tidal waters just right for a midsummer dip.
