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 or shock.

Maintain politeness and social norms

Indirect expressions help avoid embarrassment or offense in delicate conversations. Navigate taboos and sensitive topics Subjects like death, sex, aging, money, illness, or bodily functions are often euphemized. Protect relationships and preserve harmony Euphemisms cushion the impact of unpleasant truths, especially in interpersonal or professional interactions. Aid diplomacy and strategic communication Politicians and the media often use euphemisms to downplay serious issues or shift perception.

3. What do the experts say?

🔍 Linguist Robin Lakoff (1973) stated that indirectness is a central strategy in polite conversation. Euphemisms allow people to express difficult ideas without causing discomfort or violating social expectations.

🔍 Allan & Burridge (1991) observed that euphemisms are shaped by societal values and taboos, functioning as a tool to ease tension and maintain communicative balance.

4. Types of Euphemisms and  common euphemism categories and examples:

1. Death & Dying

Passed away, no longer with us, departed, gone to a better place. Used to comfort the grieving and show respect for the dead.

2. Physical or Mental Health

Special needs (for “disabled”) Mentally challenged, differently abled. Aims to promote dignity and reduce stigma.

3. Occupations & Employment

Sanitation engineer (for “garbage collector”) Career break (for “unemployed”). Adds prestige or reduces embarrassment.

4. Aging

Senior citizen, golden ager, mature adult Golden years (for “old age”). Soften the perception of aging or decline.

5. Body & Bodily Functions

Use the restroom, powder one’s nose (for “urinate”) Go number two (for “defecate”). Avoid embarrassment or maintain decorum.

6. Crime & Conflict

Collateral damage (for “civilian deaths”) Enhanced interrogation (for “torture”). Often used to sanitize or obscure harsh realities, especially in official or political language.

7. Sex & Relationships

Sleep together (for “have sex”) Seeing someone, involved with (for “in a relationship”). Protects privacy or keeps the language socially appropriate.

5. Euphemisms in Cultural and Social Context

Euphemism use is deeply influenced by culture, values, and social expectations. What is polite or gentle in one culture might not be in another.

1. Western Societies

Tend to use euphemisms to emphasize individual privacy, political correctness, and politeness. Topics like mental health, race, gender, and death are often euphemized to show respect and sensitivity.

2. Eastern Societies

Often prioritize honor, collective harmony, and respect for tradition. Indirectness in speech is common, and euphemisms are used to preserve face (reputation) and avoid shame.

🧭 Example: Japan

Instead of saying someone “died,” they may say: “He went on a journey” or “She has gone to the other shore”. This reflects cultural values of respect, spiritual continuity, and indirectness.

🧭 Example: Indonesia

Terms like “pulang ke rumah Bapa” (returned to the Father's home) are used in Christian circles to soften references to death.

Understanding euphemisms helps us:

Communicate with greater sensitivity Analyz how language reflects values and power Recognize when words are being used to obscure truth > “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.” — Rudyard Kipling.

1. What is a euphemism?

A) A direct word used for clarity

B) A technical term used in science

C) A harsh word used to insult

D) A mild or indirect word used to replace something unpleasant

✅ Correct Answer: D

2. Which of the following is a euphemism for “died”?

A) Fell asleep

B) Kicked the ball

C) Passed away

D) Lost it

✅ Correct Answer: C

3. The phrase “let go” is a euphemism for what?

A) Being released from prison

B) Being fired from a job

C) Being promoted

D) Taking a break

✅ Correct Answer: B

4. Which of these is an example of a euphemism related to bodily functions?

A) Use the restroom

B) Take the wheel

C) Go off the rails

D) Eat out

✅ Correct Answer: A

5. Why are euphemisms commonly used in professional or public communication?

A) To confuse the audience

B) To sound humorous

C) To avoid offense or discomfort

D) To impress with big words

✅ Correct Answer: C

6. In some cultures, saying someone “went on a journey” refers to what?

A) Retiring

B) Traveling

C) Dying

D) Changing careers

✅ Correct Answer: C

Source :

Allan, K., & Burridge, K. (1991). Euphemism and Dysphemism: Language Used as Shield and Weapon. Oxford University Press.

Cambridge Dictionary: “Euphemism”

Lakoff, R. (1973). The logic of politeness; or, minding your p's and q's.