Definition

To use a mild or indirect word or expression instead of one that is considered harsh or blunt.

Example

He chose to euphemise the bad news to make it sound less severe.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you had to tell your friend some bad news.

Yeah, it was tough, but I tried to euphemise it as much as I could.

That makes sense; it’s often easier to soften the blow.

Exactly! I think it helped them take it better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Euphemise → It is formed from "eu-" (meaning good or well) and "pheme" (from Greek "pheme", meaning speech or saying). The word "euphemise" means to express something in a more favorable or less offensive way, essentially speaking well about something that might be unpleasant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'good' ('eu-') speech ('pheme') — that's why euphemise means to speak in a way that is more pleasant or acceptable.

Visually Confused Words