How to Write a Euphemism
In order to use a euphemism,
- Decide when you need to say something that might be unpleasant or offensive.
- Replace that phrase with a gentle (euphemistic) word or phrase.
Here are a few examples of euphemisms replacing unpleasant phrases:
Unpleasant Sentence:
That dress is pretty ugly and doesn’t make you look good.
Sentence with Euphemisms:
That dress is unique and interesting, but doesn’t compliment your figure like the other one.
An honest but offensive statement is avoided with euphemistic phrases like “unique and interesting” for “ugly” and “doesn’t compliment your figure” for “it doesn’t make you look very good.” This is a way of politely phrasing a difficult truth and substituting positivity for criticism.
For a second example, consider someone who is exhausted from schoolwork.
Unpleasant Sentence:
I’m completely exhausted and on the verge of insanity! I’ve gotta run away from here.
This sentence is dramatic and emotional but it can become more acceptable and polite with the use of euphemisms:
Sentence with Euphemisms:
I’m a little overwhelmed. I need to walk away for a moment.
The phrase “a little overwhelmed” is a more pleasant phrase than the description of exhaustion and stress. Meanwhile, “walking away for a moment” is more acceptable and less extreme than “run away from here.”
When to Use Euphemisms
Euphemisms soften the unpleasant for numerous situations. They allow adults to speak to children about the “birds and the bees,” organizations to speak of war and death in nicer terms on the news and in speeches, and for all of us to discuss unpleasant things politely and carefully. Euphemisms allow for political correctness as well as everyday polite conversation. On the other hand, those who use euphemisms are sometimes accused of avoiding important truths. Although “casualties” sound less offensive than “bloody deaths,” they soften truths that nations should sometimes be forced to face.