euphemism
noun
the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt.
euphemistic
-
a word derived from
euphemism.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Even former president Tsai was careful to refer to China in euphemistic terms like “the other side of the strait” or “the Beijing authorities”.
From BBC ● May 23, 2024
At the time, the phrase “going to Sioux Falls” was euphemistic for getting a divorce.
From Washington Post ● Jul. 3, 2022
I assume saying “my boss is a nightmare” will raise alarm bells, and some euphemistic version — “I have serious differences of opinion with my supervisor” — is hardly better.
From New York Times ● Feb. 25, 2022
Parents in the sky — it’s the kind of euphemistic deflection offered by adults such as “the Big Bozo,” as the orphans call their overseer.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 17, 2022
The question of definition isn’t restricted to using emotive or euphemistic language.
From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith
