EUPHEMISM : THE SOFTER SIDE OF LANGUAGE
- ICT ALSA LC Unsri
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
Written By : Annisa Nur Inayah
“He’s dead”
“Wait, weren’t that too blunt and harsh?”
“Better use the phrase ‘passed away’, but why?”
Euphemism is a form of a mild or a rather more indirect word substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when describing something unpleasant or embarrassing (Oxford dictionary)
In other words, Euphemism is an alternative word used when describing something that is sad, unpleasant, taboo, or embarrassing.
For example:
When someone is struggling to find work and doesn’t currently have a job, saying “unemployed” can sound too harsh or even judgmental. For many people, this can be an embarrassing or sensitive topic.
Instead, you can use the euphemism “between jobs.” Why? Because it sounds more respectful and polite, and it avoids making the person feel uncomfortable.
WHY do we need to use euphemism?
Politeness
○ Softens words that may sound too direct, rude, or harsh.
○ Example: passed away instead of died.
Sensitivity to Feelings
○ Protects people from embarrassment or discomfort.
○ Example: between jobs instead of unemployed.
Respectfulness
○ Shows respect when talking about age, health, or personal situations.
○ Example: senior citizen instead of old person.
Professionalism & Diplomacy
○ Makes communication sound more formal and tactful in workplaces, media, or politics.
○ Example: downsizing instead of firing staff.
Avoiding Taboos
○ Some words are considered socially inappropriate to say directly.
○ Example: restroom instead of toilet.
Cultural Norms
○ Many English-speaking cultures value indirectness to avoid sounding impolite.
○ Euphemisms match these cultural expectations.
Soften Negative Realities
● Used in news, speeches, or official reports to reduce the emotional impact. Example: collateral damage instead of civilian deaths.
Can be used in any setting
Make us sounded more thoughtful
Now, can you make the euphemism or the alternative way to say these things?
Fired
In debt
Homeless
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