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Euphemism
What Is a Euphemism? (with Examples)
A euphemism is an agreeable or inoffensive term used to replace a rude or offensive one.Euphemisms typically employ wit to lessen the impact of bad news or to make discussions around difficult topics easier. They are often used in politics, business, and uncomfortable discussions (e.g., conversations about death or sex).
Table of Contents
- Examples of Euphemisms
- Video Lesson
- Examples of Common Euphemisms
- Why Euphemisms Are Important
- Printable Test

Examples of Euphemisms
Euphemisms in Politics
- Our active defense will be initiated against the regime. (Euphemism for "We will attack them.")
- A period of negative growth has been forecast. ("A recession is pending.")
- The police force is being streamlined. ("We are reducing police numbers.")
Euphemisms in Business
- From Monday, John will be seeking a career change opportunity. ("John has been fired.")
- John is making a team move from the Sales Department to the Security Section. ("John has been fired from the Sales Department.")
- I will enjoy the challenge. ("That is a difficult task!")
Euphemisms in Uncomfortable Discussions
- Your budgie has been put to sleep. ("The vet had to kill your budgie.")
- Make sure you're hatted up when making love. ("Wear a condom during sex.")
- I need to visit the throne room. ("I need the toilet.")
Examples of Common Euphemisms
Here are some examples of common euphemisms:- He has passed away. (Euphemism for "He has died.")
- She is between jobs. ("She is unemployed.")
- She has resigned her commission. ("She has been sacked.")
- He is a little thin on top. ("He is losing his hair.")
- This pre-loved sofa is for sale. ("This second-hand sofa is for sale.")
- She is economical with the truth. ("She is a liar.")
Euphemism | Meaning |
---|---|
a few sandwiches short of a picnic | mad |
cognitively challenged | stupid |
didn't make it | has died |
differently abled | disabled |
exotic dancer | stripper |
kicked the bucket | has died |
knocked up | is pregnant |
letting you go | you're fired |
lost his marbles | mad |
over the hill | too old to function effectively |
visually challenged | visually impaired |
- Adam, did you recycle Jack's research? ("Did you plagiarize Jack's research?")
- There is a technicoloured yawn on path. ("There is a pool of vomit on the path")
Consider a euphemism to deliver tough news.
While euphemisms can be used for comic effect, they can also be used to soften tough news or uncomfortable ideas. Euphemisms usually undermine the offensiveness of a negative idea (e.g., death, old age, madness) by being polite, witty, or a bit of both.When talking to a grieving widow, for example, a polite euphemism for dead (e.g., "passed away," "resting in peace") will be more appropriate than a witty one (e.g., "kicked the oxygen habit," "plucking turnips"). You can use well-known euphemisms or even invent your own.
- If you're concerned your message might offend, start thinking about, or looking up, suitable euphemisms.
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