Flashcard 13 - 11th Grade English Language Arts and Literacy: Reading Flashcard Set for the SBAC

euphemism

Euphemisms can take something harsh or unpleasant and “soften the blow” it has on the audience. Often used to discuss death, bodily functions, and aging, euphemisms can also be used to describe employment status, or physical or mental attributes. For example, rather than saying someone was fired (harsh), we might say they were let go (nicer). The meaning is the same, but the presentation is not as blunt or harsh.