Euphemism
Category: Loaded Language
What is it?
A euphemism substitutes a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be harsh, blunt, or offensive. While euphemisms can be appropriate for politeness, they can also be used to obscure or minimize negative actions or concepts.
Examples
'The company is going through a workforce adjustment' (instead of 'firing employees')
'Passed away' (instead of 'died')
How to Avoid This
Use euphemisms appropriately for politeness, but avoid them when clarity is more important or when they might obscure understanding of serious issues.
How to Counter This
Restate using more direct language: 'You mean they're firing people, correct?'