euphemism

noun
UK: /ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/
US: /ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/

  1. A polite word or expression used to replace one that may be considered offensive or unpleasant.

    1. "Passed away" is a common euphemism for "died".
    2. The company used the euphemism "downsizing" to describe the mass layoffs that occurred last quarter.

  2. The substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague term for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt.

    1. Using "senior citizen" is a euphemism to avoid saying "old person".
    2. Instead of directly stating the problem, he used a euphemism, which softened the impact of the news.

Synonyms

delicacy circumlocution genteelism substitute understatement

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "euphemism" in English means: A polite word or expression used to replace one that may be considered offensive or unpleasant., The substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague term for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt..

The phonetic transcription of "euphemism" is /ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/ in British English and /ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "euphemism": delicacy, circumlocution, genteelism, substitute, understatement.

Example usage of "euphemism": ""Passed away" is a common euphemism for "died".". More examples on the page.