December 8, 2004 at 10:44 am
Okay, so we’ve had the “what’s your favourite word” thread, here’s your chance to share your favourite euphemisms.
I recognise that English isn’t everyone’s primary language, so I’ll give you a definition of a euphemism from the Oxford English Dictionary:
euphemism
/yoofmiz’m/
• noun a mild or less direct word substituted for one that is harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
I’ll start you off with one or two which are fairly tame:
“Spending a penny” – going to the loo
“Talking on the great white telephone” – being sick
Don’t be shy, add more! I’d particularly love to hear what euphemisms some of our continental and transatlantic cousins have!