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 the original terms had euphemistic elements to them.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 4, 2025
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
The question of definition isn’t restricted to using emotive or euphemistic language.
From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith
