ESA Pedia: Euphemisms

Hi, fellas! This time, ESA FKIP Universitas Riau through the Communication and Informatics Division is back with another exciting and educational topic in ESA Pedia. In this edition, we’ll explore Euphemisms—a common but often overlooked part of English that helps us speak more politely, gently, or indirectly. Stay tuned to understand what euphemisms are, why they’re used, and how they can enhance your communication skills! 1. What Are Euphemisms? A euphemism is a mild or indirect word or expression used in place of one that may be considered too harsh, blunt, or offensive. The goal is to deliver the same message in a more socially acceptable or less distressing manner. As defined by the Cambridge Dictionary: A euphemism is a word or phrase used to avoid saying an unpleasant or offensive word. 2. Why Are Euphemisms Used? Euphemisms serve multiple communicative and social functions: Soften harsh realities E.g., “passed away” is often preferred over “died” to reduce emotional pain o...