What is euphemism?

Words can wound. Words can heal

by Mehdi Safavi | Jul 20, 2019 | Speaking, Tips

Would you like it if someone called you ‘fat’?! How about ‘overweight’? A euphemism is a word (or series of words) which replaces sad, unpleasant or shocking ideas with softer and nicer expressions.

Now let’s practice:

What do the following euphemisms mean?

Robin Williams passed away on Aug 11, 2014.
My goodness, is that your car?
Manager: Sorry, but I’m going to have to let you go.
Well, I am between jobs now.
What do think of this handbag? Well, I’ve seen better.
Ahmadinejad is economical with the truth!
This job is not suitable for the visually impaired.
She was less favoured by beauty.
Someone borrowed money without asking from my purse.
Kim’s IELTS writing has plenty of room for improvement.

Answers:

Robin Williams died on Aug 11, 2014.
My God, is that your car?
Manager: Sorry, but I’m going to have to fire you.
Well, I am unemployed now.
What do you think of this handbag? Well, it is not really good.
Ahmadinejad is a liar!
This job is not suitable for the blind.
She was ugly.
Someone stole money from my purse.
Kim’s IELTS writing is not so good.

Now it is your turn. Can you add any more euphemisms to this list? Leave a comment below…

About the Author

CEO and Co-founder of Juice Academy

Mehdi Safavi is a Cambridge certified English teacher (CELTA Grade A), IDP-trained IELTS expert, Sussex Downs College TESOL with 17+ years of teaching & teacher training experience. More about him →