A euphemism /ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/ is an indirect word or phrase that people often use to refer to something embarrassing (1) or unpleasant (2), sometimes to make it seem more acceptable than it really is. It can soften our language when we’re talking about certain topics. For example:

1. Where can I powder my nose? (Instead of “Where is the toilet?”)
2. His company let him go a month ago. (Instead of “He was fired a month ago.”)

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common English euphemisms and see how to use them in everyday conversation.

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