# euphemistic

/ˌjufəˈmɪstɪk/ (US) · /jˌuːfɪmˈɪstɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/euphemistic
Updated: 2026-09-29

## Definition

using a polite or mild word to describe something that is actually unpleasant, embarrassing, or rude. You use this when you want to make a difficult topic sound nicer.

For teachers: using a mild or indirect word or expression in place of one considered too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.

## Examples

- He used a euphemistic phrase to talk about losing his job.
- The company's memo used euphemistic language like 'right-sizing' to avoid saying they were firing hundreds of employees.
- Political discourse is often saturated with euphemistic terminology designed to soften the impact of controversial policies on the voting public.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'language', 'phrase', or 'term'.

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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.