euphemism
/ˈjuː.fəˌmɪ.z(ə)m/
Group 27Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (noun)
- A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt GRE
Example in Context
The company's use of the euphemism 'workforce restructuring' to describe mass layoffs did nothing to soften the blow for affected employees.
Synonyms
soft wordpolite termsubstitute
Etymology
From Greek meaning to speak well, refers to a more pleasant way to say something harsh.
- euphēmismos (Greek) — to speak well
Memory Aid
🗣️Sounds like “you-fem-ism”
Imagine someone using a fancy YOU-FEM-ISM to tell a friend they smell bad, so they do it nicely!
Visual Association
🤭A person discreetly whispering a flattering phrase to soften the blow of a blunt critique.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “euphemism” mean on the GRE?
euphemism (noun) means “A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt”. The company's use of the euphemism 'workforce restructuring' to describe mass layoffs did nothing to soften the blow for affected employees.
How to remember “euphemism” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “euphemism” sounds like “you-fem-ism”. Imagine someone using a fancy YOU-FEM-ISM to tell a friend they smell bad, so they do it nicely!
What are synonyms for “euphemism”?
Common synonyms: soft word, polite term, substitute.