Doublespeak
Category: Rhetorical Device
What is it?
Doublespeak is language that deliberately obscures, disguises, or reverses the meaning of words to make the unpleasant appear pleasant, the unethical seem ethical, or the harmful appear beneficial. It's often used to make negative actions sound more acceptable.
Examples
'The enhanced interrogation techniques were applied to detainees.' (instead of 'torture')
'Collateral damage' (instead of 'civilian casualties')
How to Avoid This
Use clear, direct language that accurately describes actions and concepts, even when discussing difficult topics. Avoid euphemisms that mask the true nature of something harmful.
How to Counter This
Restate the claim using more direct language: 'You're talking about torture, not "enhanced interrogation."'