Euphemism: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Euphemism noun. A mild or vague word used instead of one that sounds harsh, blunt or embarrassing.
How to say it
YOO-fuh-miz-um/ˈjuːfəmɪz(ə)m/
4 syllables, stressed on the first (YOO).
Euphemism in a sentence
'Between jobs' is a polite euphemism my uncle has used since 2019.
The company's favourite euphemism for layoffs was 'rightsizing'.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- understatement
- polite term
- softening
Opposite:
- dysphemism
Where euphemism comes from
From Greek euphēmismos, from eu-, well, and phēmē, speaking.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
The company's favourite _____ for layoffs was 'rightsizing'.
- philippic
- euphemism
- lethologica
Show the answer
euphemism: The company's favourite euphemism for layoffs was 'rightsizing'.