Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
A euphemism (/ ˈ juː f ə m ɪ z əm / YOO-fə-miz-əm) is an innocuous word or expression used in place of one that is deemed offensive or suggests something unpleasant. [1] Some euphemisms are intended to amuse, while others use bland, inoffensive terms for concepts that the user wishes to downplay.
Euphemism: Take/took the easy way out [19] To commit suicide Euphemism: Based on the original meaning of the phrase of taking the path of least resistance. Take the last train to glory [2] To die Euphemism: An idiom Christian in origin. Tango Uniform [citation needed] Dead, irreversibly broken Military slang
A euphemism is a mild, indirect, or vague term substituting for a harsher, blunter, or more offensive term.. It may also substitute a description of something or someone to avoid revealing secret, holy, or sacred names to the uninitiated, or to obscure the identity of the subject of a conversation from potential eavesdroppers.
The first thought I had was that I should "spend more time with my family" -- before being reminded that when you normally hear this phrase, it's being used as the world's biggest euphemism. An ...
Euphemism – an innocuous, inoffensive or circumlocutory term or phrase for something unpleasant or obscene—e.g., in advertising for female hygiene products any liquid shown is never red, it's usually blue. Exemplum – the citation of an example, either truthful or fictitious. Exordium – the introductory portion of an oration.
Euphemisms should generally be avoided in favor of more neutral and precise terms. Died and had sex are neutral and accurate; passed away and made love are euphemisms. Some words and phrases that are proper in many contexts also have euphemistic senses that should be avoided: civilian casualties should not be masked as collateral damage.
Alternatively, in the moment of death a person stretches their legs (Spanish: Estirar la pata means "to die") and so might kick the bucket placed there. Yet another theory seeks to extend the saying beyond its earliest use in the 16th century with reference to the Latin proverb Capra Scyria, the goat that is said to kick over the pail after being milked (920 in Erasmus' Adagia).
Instead, Dr. Danda offers up these phrases: “Happy you’re home,” “Glad you’re back,” or “I’m happy to see your smiling face.” “Parents can also make observations about ...