Euphemize

/ˈjuːfəmaɪz/ verb

Definition

To use a milder or more pleasant word or expression instead of a harsh, blunt, or offensive one.

Etymology

From Greek 'euphemism' (eu- 'good' + pheme 'speech') + the verb-forming suffix '-ize'. The verb form emerged in English in the 19th century as the concept became more recognized as a distinct linguistic behavior.

Kelly Says

Euphemize is the verb that powers an entire industry of corporate communication—HR departments euphemize 'getting fired' into 'career transition,' making the act of losing your job sound like a motivational seminar!

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