What Is a Euphemism?

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Quizzes Created: 8157 | Total Attempts: 9,567,281
| Questions: 15 | Updated: Jan 5, 2026
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1. A euphemism replaces a _____ word with a gentler one.
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About This Quiz
What Is A Euphemism? - Quiz

Let’s start with the basics. In this introductory quiz, you’ll learn what a euphemism is and why writers and speakers use softer language instead of direct or harsh words. You’ll identify clear examples, match phrases to their meanings, and practice distinguishing euphemisms from phrases that are simply descriptive. By the... see moreend, you’ll have a strong foundation for recognizing euphemisms in everyday reading and conversation.
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2. Match each phrase with its real meaning:
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3. What is a euphemism?

Explanation

A euphemism uses gentle or polite words instead of words that may sound rude, harsh, or uncomfortable.

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4. Which sentence contains a euphemism?

Explanation

“Passed away” is a softer, more polite way to say that someone has died.

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5. A euphemism makes something sound softer or kinder.

Explanation

Euphemisms are used to make difficult or uncomfortable ideas sound kinder or softer.

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6. Which phrase is a euphemism for “fired from a job”?

Explanation

“Let go from the company” sounds gentler than directly saying someone was fired.

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7. Which is NOT a euphemism?

Explanation

“As strong as an ox” is a simile because it compares strength using “as,” not a euphemism.

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8. “Put to sleep” is a euphemism for:

Explanation

“Put to sleep” is often used as a gentle way to talk about euthanizing an animal.

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9. Which sentence uses a euphemism to be polite?

Explanation

“Passed away” is a polite expression used instead of saying someone died.

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10. Euphemisms are only used in sad situations.

Explanation

Euphemisms are used in many situations, such as talking about jobs, age, or money—not just sad events.

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11. “Correctional facility” is a euphemism for:

Explanation

A correctional facility is another name for a jail or prison.

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12. “Sanitation worker” is a polite term for:

Explanation

Sanitation worker is a respectful term used for a janitor or garbage collector.

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13. “Pre-owned vehicle” means:

Explanation

A pre-owned vehicle is another way to say a used car.

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14. “Ethnic cleansing” is a euphemism for:

Explanation

Ethnic cleansing is a euphemism used to hide or soften the meaning of serious violence or genocide.

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15. Writers use euphemism to:

Explanation

Writers use euphemisms to sound polite and avoid hurting or offending others.

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A euphemism replaces a _____ word with a gentler one.
Match each phrase with its real meaning:
What is a euphemism?
Which sentence contains a euphemism?
A euphemism makes something sound softer or kinder.
Which phrase is a euphemism for “fired from a job”?
Which is NOT a euphemism?
“Put to sleep” is a euphemism for:
Which sentence uses a euphemism to be polite?
Euphemisms are only used in sad situations.
“Correctional facility” is a euphemism for:
“Sanitation worker” is a polite term for:
“Pre-owned vehicle” means:
“Ethnic cleansing” is a euphemism for:
Writers use euphemism to:
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