# euphemism

/ˈjufəˌmɪzəm/ (US) · /jˈuːfəmˌɪzəm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/euphemism
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a polite substitute word

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a word or phrase you use instead of a blunter one to be polite or avoid embarrassment.

For teachers: a linguistic device used to replace a term that is perceived as offensive, vulgar, or socially unacceptable with a more palatable alternative.

- People often use 'passed away' as a euphemism for 'died' to be more gentle.
- The corporate report used 'downsizing' as a euphemism for mass layoffs to mitigate the negative impact on public relations.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'for' to indicate the original blunt term.

Teaching tip: Learners should note that euphemisms are common in professional, medical, and social contexts to maintain 'face' or decorum.

## Examples

- The company used the euphemism 'downsizing' to describe job cuts.
- In many cultures, people use the euphemism 'passed away' instead of saying someone died to be more polite.
- The politician's speech was full of euphemisms, carefully chosen to avoid the harsh reality of the proposed tax increases while maintaining a positive public image.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.