Study Notes
Euphemisms are figures of speech used to soften or mask the reality of a situation. They are often used to make unpleasant or uncomfortable topics more palatable.
- Euphemism — a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt. Example: "Passed away" instead of "died."
- Kick the bucket — a euphemism for dying. Example: "He kicked the bucket last night."
- Senior citizen — a polite term for an elderly person. Example: "Discounts are available for senior citizens."
- Put to sleep — a euphemism for euthanizing an animal. Example: "We had to put our dog to sleep."
- Visually impaired — a more gentle term for blind. Example: "He is visually impaired and uses a guide dog."
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt.
- Kick the bucket: A euphemism for dying.
- Senior citizen: A polite term for an elderly person.
Common Confusions
- Confusing euphemisms with metaphors.
- Using euphemisms inappropriately in formal writing.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is a euphemism? A mild or indirect word or expression used to replace a harsh or blunt one.
- Give an example of a euphemism for death. "Passed away" is a common euphemism for death.
- Why are euphemisms used in language? They are used to soften the impact of harsh or uncomfortable topics.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of what euphemisms are and their purpose.
- Ability to identify euphemisms in sentences.
- Ability to create appropriate euphemisms for given situations.