euphemistic

/,ju:fi'mistik/ Cách viết khác : (euphemistical) /,ju:fi'mistikəl/

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Word: Euphemistic

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: "Euphemistic" refers to the use of a mild or gentle word or phrase to replace a harsher or more unpleasant one. It is often used to make something uncomfortable or offensive sound more acceptable or polite.

Usage Instructions:

When you want to talk about something that might be upsetting or inappropriate, you can use euphemistic language. This helps to soften the message and make it easier for people to hear.

Example:

• Instead of saying someone "died," a euphemistic way to say it would be "passed away."
• Another example: Instead of saying someone is "fired," you might say they were "let go."

Advanced Usage:

In literature and formal writing, euphemistic language can be used to create a more delicate tone or to imply meaning without being direct. For instance, a politician might use euphemisms to discuss sensitive topics in a way that avoids upsetting the audience.

Word Variants:

• Euphemism (noun): A word or phrase that is used as a euphemistic expression. For example, "passed away" is a euphemism for "died."
• Euphemistically (adverb): In a way that uses euphemisms. For example, "He euphemistically referred to his job loss as a transition."

Different Meanings:

While "euphemistic" primarily refers to language that softens unpleasant terms, it can also imply evasion or avoidance of the truth. Some people may use euphemisms to dodge discussing uncomfortable realities.

Synonyms:

• Mild
• Indirect
• Softened
• Polite

Related Idioms:

• "Sugarcoat it": This means to make something seem better or more pleasant than it really is, similar to using a euphemism.

Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific phrasal verbs that directly relate to "euphemistic," you might encounter phrases like "dance around" a subject, which means to avoid addressing something directly—similar to using euphemisms.

Summary:

"Euphemistic" is a way of describing language that replaces harsh or unpleasant words with softer ones.

Academic

Adjective

1. substituting a mild term for a harsher or distasteful one
   • `peepee' is a common euphemistic term

Synonyms

• inoffensive