Monday, 5 October 2015

Euphemisms:

'Economical with the truth' - Lying

Lying can be considered a taboo subject, so it may be best to disguise the fact that someone was lying. Also, masking it may make a situation easier on oneself, so using a euphemism will take the sting out of saying the word 'lying', which can be quite harsh and unpleasant.

'To let someone go' - To fire someone

Some people may be too embarrassed to admit that they were fired from a job, so instead they could soften the term 'fire' by saying that they were 'let go'. This sounds more gradual and less abrupt and harsh. Similarly, this could work for when someone is doing the firing of an employee, it would make it easier to tell them.

'Gone to meet his maker' - Died

Death is another taboo subject, especially if talking to someone about their relative or friend. They may not want to go into detail, or admit that they are dead, so instead this phrase makes it seem as though they have left for a while but will be coming back, so it is a temporary comfort.

No comments:

Post a Comment