What is Euphemism? Give an example.

Hint: This device is used when writing about matters such as violence, death, crimes and things “embarrassing”. The purpose of euphemisms is to substitute unpleasant and severe words.

Complete answer : A euphemism is a figure of speech. Now the question arises – what is a figure of speech?

A figure of speech is a word or phrase that possesses a separate meaning from its literal definition. It can be a metaphor or simile, designed to make a comparison. It can be the repetition of alliteration or the exaggeration of hyperbole to provide a dramatic effect. It is used in writing as a literary device to make the writing more efficient and effective.

Now, the meaning of euphemism – in simple words a euphemism is a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.

You can understand euphemism more clearly by the following definition – The term ‘euphemism’ is used to refer to the literary practice of using a comparatively milder or less abrasive form of a negative description instead of its original, unsympathetic word. The purpose of euphemisms is to substitute unpleasant and severe words with more genteel ones in order to reduce harshness.

Example of euphemism are – We use euphemism to make something less offensive, so: house – wife can be written as – homemaker, or passed away can be used instead of died, or downsizing is used when a company fires or lays off a larger number of employees, or to put out to pasture, when one implies retiring a person because they are too old to be effective.

Note: If you are familiar with figures of speech or literary devices you will understand what euphemism means and what its example would be. They are used to mask things that may be harsh - based on this, frame your answer.