euphemism [yoo-fuh-miz-uhm] noun. The substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt in speech or writing. Euphemisms. We've all used them at one time or another. You know what I mean, right? It's saying things like "downsizing" instead of "firing employees"........."pre-owned" instead of "used".........."faux" instead of "fake"....... I could go on and on (you could, too, I'm sure!) How in the world did this practice get its start? According to the OES, it dates back to the 1600s in ancient Greece when folks would avoid words of "ill-omen" during religious ceremonies with more pleasant substitutions. "euphemism." Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas Harper, Historian. 05 Mar. 2014. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/euphemism>. "Euphemism is a human device to conceal the horrors of reality." So, why do we use them today? Surely, we're not still concerned about those "ill-omens", are we? Well, I think somewhere along the way, it was decided that the truth might be a little too difficult to accept as is, so expressions were softened in order not to offend anyone. So, as Dr. Phil would say, "How's that working for ya'?" Personally, I think it's making more and more things socially acceptable in our society, and I'm not convinced that it's helping matters. Examples of 'softening an expression':
I also think we just don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, which, by the way, is a very honorable thing to do as long as we aren't putting our heads in the sand about the reality of the situation. Examples of 'politeness':
Then, there are some that I just don't understand. I mean, perhaps I have my own head in the sand here, but what's wrong with the original term? Why did we even need a euphemism here? I'm thinking this is where "Political Correctness" came into play. For example..........
“Euphemisms are unpleasant truths wearing diplomatic cologne.” ~Quentin Crisp So, there you have it. My Wednesday's Word for this week: Euphemism. What are your thoughts about this frequently used literary device? Are we softening the blow or shoving our heads in the sand?
Until next time, ~Dot
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AuthorHi! I'm Dot. I refuse to succumb to the "empty nest syndrome"! So, this is my journal.....my photo album.....my attempt to enjoy the next chapter of my life as it unfolds. Welcome to The Roomy Nest! Archives
January 2020
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