Pronunciation: [jˈuːfəmˌɪzəm] (IPA) 
Euphemism is spelled with the Greek prefix "eu-" meaning good or well, and the Greek suffix "-ism" meaning the doctrine, belief or principle of. The word is pronounced yoo-fuh-miz-uhm, with emphasis on the second syllable. Euphemism is a term used to replace a harsh or offensive term with a more subtle and indirect expression. It can be seen as a form of politeness or consideration for the listener or the subject being discussed.
A euphemism is a figure of speech that aims to replace harsh, offensive, or potentially uncomfortable words or phrases with milder or more socially acceptable expressions. It involves the use of understatement, indirectness, or polite terms to communicate sensitive or taboo topics, thus softening the impact or adding a layer of gentleness. Euphemisms are employed in various contexts, including everyday conversation, literature, advertising, or formal settings, to address delicate subjects that might otherwise be deemed impolite, inappropriate, or offensive.
The purpose of a euphemism is often to shield individuals from distressing or unpleasant realities, while still conveying the intended meaning. By using more neutral or inoffensive language, euphemisms allow people to discuss sensitive topics with greater discretion, tact, or diplomacy. Common examples of euphemisms can be found in discussions about death (e.g., "passed away"), bodily functions (e.g., "nature's call"), offensive terms (e.g., "differently abled" instead of "disabled"), or war (e.g., "collateral damage" instead of "civilian casualties").
While euphemisms can help maintain social harmony, they can also be subject to criticism as they may obscure or sanitize the magnitude or seriousness of certain issues. Furthermore, their use can vary across cultures and change over time due to shifts in societal norms and language evolution. Overall, euphemisms serve as linguistic tools to navigate delicate topics by substituting explicit language with more subtle and socially acceptable expressions.
The substitution of a delicate or indirect expression in order to avoid something offensive to good manners, or indelicate; a mild name for something offensive.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "euphemism" comes from the Greek roots "eu", meaning "good" or "well", and "phemismos", meaning "to speak". It was derived from the Greek word "euphemia", which means "use of favorable language" or "good speech". The term was coined in ancient Greece, indicating the substitution of milder, more pleasant, or less offensive words or phrases for those considered harsh, vulgar, or taboo.
