euphemism
Translation
euphemism
Examples
'Passed away' is a euphemism for 'died'.
'Passed away' is a euphemism for 'died'.
He used a euphemism to avoid being direct.
He used a euphemism to avoid being direct.
Grammar Patterns
((noun)) ((for sth.)) a polite word for (sth.) unpleasant. 'Passed away' is a euphemism for 'died'.
Similar Words
Synonyms: polite term, indirect term; Antonyms: dysphemism
Etymology
From Greek 'eu' (good) + 'phēmē' (speaking). It means 'speaking well'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'eu-' as in 'euphoria' (good feeling) and 'phem' as related to 'phone' (sound/speech). A good-sounding way to say something.