noun
C2
Proficient
euphemism
YOO-fuh-mihz-uhm
Euphemism (noun) means a mild or indirect word or phrase used in place of one considered too harsh, blunt, or unpleasant. Example: “Passed away" is a common euphemism for "died.”
noun
1
A mild or indirect word or phrase used in place of one considered too harsh, blunt, or unpleasant.
""Passed away" is a common euphemism for "died.""
"Calling layoffs "restructuring" is a classic corporate euphemism."
How to use euphemism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA softer, gentler way of saying something unpleasant or awkward.
Common pairings
a euphemism for
polite euphemism
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Word forms
- Plural
- euphemisms
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"Passed away" is a common _____ for "died."
Etymology
From Ancient Greek euphēmismós, from eúphēmos (\"using words of good omen\"), from eu- (\"well\") + phḗmē (\"speech, voice\").
Synonyms
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perfumed terms of the time
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for euphemism
See all rhymes for euphemism →Frequently asked questions
What does “euphemism” mean?
The word “euphemism” means a mild or indirect word or phrase used in place of one considered too harsh, blunt, or unpleasant. In plain terms, a softer, gentler way of saying something unpleasant or awkward.
How do you pronounce “euphemism”?
“Euphemism” is pronounced YOO-fuh-mihz-uhm (/ˈjuː.fəˌmɪz.əm/ in IPA).
How do you use “euphemism” in a sentence?
Here is “euphemism” used in a sentence: “"Passed away" is a common euphemism for "died.".”
What is another word for “euphemism”?
Words with a similar meaning to “euphemism” include perfumed terms of the time.
What is the opposite of “euphemism”?
The opposite of “euphemism” — its antonyms — are dysphemism and expletive.
What part of speech is “euphemism”?
“Euphemism” is a noun.
Where does the word “euphemism” come from?
The word “euphemism” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek euphēmismós, from eúphēmos (\"using words of good omen\"), from eu- (\"well\") + phḗmē (\"speech, voice\").
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