C2adjectiveformallanguagesociety
US/ˌjuː.fəˈmɪs.tɪk/
UK/ˌjuː.fəˈmɪs.tɪk/
using a mild or polite word instead of a direct one that might upset or offend people
In context
"Let go" is a euphemistic way of saying that someone was fired.
The report used euphemistic language to describe the failed project.
Politicians often choose euphemistic terms to avoid upsetting voters.
Words that go with euphemistic
adjective + noun
- euphemistic languageDoctors sometimes use euphemistic language with frightened patients.
- euphemistic term"Downsizing" is a euphemistic term for cutting jobs.
- euphemistic expression"Passed away" is a euphemistic expression for died.
- euphemistic phraseThe euphemistic phrase hid how serious the problem was.
- euphemistic wayIt is a euphemistic way to describe a very bad result.
adjective + preposition
- euphemistic forThe word "adjustment" was euphemistic for a price rise.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He used a euphemistic to describe the layoffs.Correct: He used a euphemism to describe the layoffs.