Euphemisms and Politically Correct Language: English ЕГЭ 2025 Preparation
Understanding euphemisms and politically correct language is essential for effective communication in English. This guide will help you recognize and use these language features appropriately, which is important for success in the ЕГЭ English exam. You'll learn how euphemisms and politically correct terms function in different contexts and how to navigate potentially sensitive topics with linguistic awareness and cultural sensitivity.
Theory for Exam Preparation
Euphemisms are mild or indirect expressions used in place of words or phrases that might be considered harsh, unpleasant, or offensive. Politically correct language refers to words or expressions that are designed to avoid offense or disadvantage to members of particular groups in society. Both are important aspects of sociolinguistic competence in English. In the ЕГЭ English exam, you may encounter texts that contain euphemisms and politically correct language, and you may need to demonstrate your understanding of these features in reading comprehension tasks or use them appropriately in writing tasks. This guide will explore the functions and types of euphemisms, the principles of politically correct language, and how these linguistic features have evolved over time. By understanding these aspects of English, you will be better equipped to interpret texts accurately and express yourself appropriately in different contexts, which is essential for achieving a high score in the exam.
Understanding Euphemisms
What Are Euphemisms?
Euphemisms are mild, indirect, or vague expressions used in place of words or phrases that might be considered harsh, unpleasant, offensive, or taboo. They are a form of figurative language that allows speakers to address sensitive topics while minimizing potential discomfort or offense.
Functions of Euphemisms
- Politeness: To show respect and avoid causing offense
- Taboo avoidance: To discuss topics that are culturally sensitive or forbidden
- Face-saving: To protect the dignity or reputation of oneself or others
- Mitigation: To soften the impact of harsh realities
- Concealment: To hide or downplay negative aspects of something
Common Types of Euphemisms
Death and Dying
| Direct Term | Euphemism |
|---|
| Die |
Pass away, depart, go to a better place, rest in peace, breathe one's last |
| Dead |
Deceased, late, no longer with us, gone |
| Coffin |
Casket, final resting place |
| Cemetery |
Memorial park, resting place |
Bodily Functions
| Direct Term | Euphemism |
|---|
| Urinate |
Use the restroom, powder one's nose, spend a penny |
| Defecate |
Use the facilities, answer nature's call |
| Vomit |
Be sick, feel unwell, lose one's lunch |
| Sweat |
Perspire, glow |
Age and Appearance
| Direct Term | Euphemism |
|---|
| Old |
Senior, mature, experienced, of a certain age |
| Fat |
Plus-sized, full-figured, heavy-set, big-boned |
| Bald |
Thin on top, follically challenged |
| Ugly |
Plain, not conventionally attractive |
Employment and Economics
| Direct Term | Euphemism |
|---|
| Fired |
Let go, downsized, made redundant, released |
| Poor |
Economically disadvantaged, underprivileged, low-income |
| Cheap |
Affordable, budget-friendly, economical |
| Debt |
Financial obligation, liability |
War and Violence
| Direct Term | Euphemism |
|---|
| Kill |
Neutralize, take out, eliminate |
| Bombing |
Air support, strategic strike |
| Civilian casualties |
Collateral damage |
| Torture |
Enhanced interrogation |
Formation of Euphemisms
Euphemisms can be formed through various linguistic processes:
- Circumlocution: Using more words than necessary to express an idea (e.g., "between jobs" instead of "unemployed")
- Abbreviation: Using initials or shortened forms (e.g., "the big C" for cancer)
- Metaphor: Using figurative language (e.g., "pushing up daisies" for being dead)
- Technical terms: Using scientific or specialized vocabulary (e.g., "myocardial infarction" instead of "heart attack")
- Borrowing: Using words from other languages (e.g., "faux pas" instead of "mistake")
- Understatement: Minimizing the significance (e.g., "not feeling well" instead of "seriously ill")
- Abstraction: Using general terms instead of specific ones (e.g., "intimate parts" instead of specific body parts)
Understanding Politically Correct Language
What Is Politically Correct Language?
Politically correct language refers to words or expressions that are designed to avoid offense or disadvantage to members of particular groups in society. It aims to be inclusive, respectful, and sensitive to diverse identities and experiences.
Principles of Politically Correct Language
- Person-first language: Putting the person before the condition or characteristic (e.g., "person with a disability" rather than "disabled person")
- Avoiding stereotypes: Not using language that reinforces negative generalizations about groups
- Inclusive terminology: Using terms that acknowledge and respect diversity
- Avoiding unnecessary gender markers: Using gender-neutral terms when gender is not relevant
- Respecting self-identification: Using terms that groups use to describe themselves
Common Areas of Politically Correct Language
Disability
| Non-PC Term | Politically Correct Term |
|---|
| Handicapped, crippled |
Person with a disability |
| Confined to a wheelchair |
Wheelchair user |
| Mentally retarded |
Person with an intellectual disability |
| Deaf and dumb |
Deaf, person who is deaf |
Race and Ethnicity
| Non-PC Term | Politically Correct Term |
|---|
| Colored people |
People of color |
| Oriental |
Asian, East Asian |
| Indian (for Native Americans) |
Native American, Indigenous person, specific tribal affiliation |
| Eskimo |
Inuit, Yupik (or specific group name) |
Gender and Sexuality
| Non-PC Term | Politically Correct Term |
|---|
| Mankind |
Humanity, humankind |
| Fireman, policeman |
Firefighter, police officer |
| Stewardess |
Flight attendant |
| Homosexual (as noun) |
Gay person, lesbian |
Age
| Non-PC Term | Politically Correct Term |
|---|
| Old people, the elderly |
Older adults, seniors |
| Senile |
Person with dementia, person with cognitive impairment |
| Geriatric |
Older adult |
Socioeconomic Status
| Non-PC Term | Politically Correct Term |
|---|
| Poor, poverty-stricken |
Economically disadvantaged, low-income |
| Slum, ghetto |
Underserved community, economically disadvantaged area |
| Third World countries |
Developing nations, Global South |
Evolution of Politically Correct Language
Politically correct language is not static; it evolves over time as societal attitudes change and as marginalized groups advocate for more respectful terminology. What was considered acceptable in the past may now be viewed as offensive, and current politically correct terms may eventually be replaced by new ones.
Examples of evolution:
- "Crippled" → "Handicapped" → "Disabled" → "Person with a disability"
- "Negro" → "Black" → "African American" → "Black" (reclaimed)
- "Homosexual" → "Gay/Lesbian" → "LGBTQ+" (expanding to include more identities)
Euphemisms vs. Politically Correct Language
Similarities
- Both aim to avoid offense
- Both involve substituting potentially problematic terms with more acceptable ones
- Both reflect social and cultural values
- Both evolve over time
Differences
| Euphemisms | Politically Correct Language |
|---|
| Often used to avoid taboo topics or uncomfortable realities |
Used specifically to avoid discrimination or marginalization |
| Can sometimes obscure or mislead |
Aims for accuracy and respect |
| May be used for politeness in general |
Focuses on social justice and inclusion |
| Often individual choice based on comfort |
Often reflects institutional or societal standards |
Euphemisms and Politically Correct Language in Different Contexts
Formal Writing
In formal writing, such as academic papers, business documents, and official communications:
- Politically correct language is generally expected and appropriate
- Euphemisms may be used for politeness but should not obscure meaning
- Clear, precise language is valued, but sensitivity to potentially offensive terms is important
- Following current style guides (e.g., APA, MLA) can help with appropriate terminology
Example:
"The study included participants from various socioeconomic backgrounds, including those from low-income households and those experiencing homelessness."
Media and Journalism
In news reporting, articles, and broadcasts:
- Balance between accuracy and sensitivity is crucial
- Euphemisms may be used to avoid graphic details in sensitive stories
- Politically correct language is generally expected, especially in mainstream outlets
- Style guides often provide specific guidelines for terminology
Example:
"The officer-involved shooting resulted in one fatality. The deceased was a 35-year-old man with a history of mental health challenges."
Everyday Conversation
In casual, interpersonal communication:
- Euphemisms are common for topics like bodily functions, sex, and death
- Politically correct language may be less strictly observed but is increasingly expected
- Context and relationship between speakers affects what is appropriate
- Cultural and generational differences may influence language choices
Example:
"I need to use the restroom before we leave."
Professional Settings
In workplaces, educational institutions, and other professional environments:
- Politically correct language is often mandated by policies
- Euphemisms are common for difficult topics like termination or poor performance
- Inclusive language is increasingly emphasized in corporate culture
- Training on appropriate language use is common
Example:
"Due to restructuring, several positions have been eliminated, and affected employees will be offered severance packages."
Political Discourse
In political speeches, debates, and policy discussions:
- Both euphemisms and politically correct language can be used strategically
- Euphemisms may be used to frame issues favorably
- Politically correct language may signal values and affiliations
- Criticism of both "euphemistic language" and "political correctness" can itself be political
Example:
"We're not raising taxes; we're implementing revenue enhancement measures to ensure adequate funding for essential services."
Criticisms and Controversies
Criticisms of Euphemisms
- Obscuring truth: Euphemisms can hide or minimize serious issues
- Misleading: They can create confusion about what is actually being discussed
- Dishonesty: They can be seen as a form of deception or manipulation
- Euphemism treadmill: Euphemisms often eventually take on the negative connotations of the words they replace
Example of euphemism treadmill:
"Toilet" was originally a euphemism (from French "toilette" meaning dressing room), which replaced "lavatory" (from Latin "lavare" meaning to wash), which itself was a euphemism. Now "toilet" is considered direct language, and new euphemisms like "restroom" or "bathroom" are used instead.
Criticisms of Politically Correct Language
- Restricting free speech: Some argue it limits expression and debate
- Complexity: Keeping up with evolving terminology can be challenging
- Superficiality: Changing words without changing underlying attitudes or policies
- Cultural differences: What is considered politically correct varies across cultures
Finding Balance
Navigating euphemisms and politically correct language requires balance:
- Context awareness: Understanding when sensitivity is appropriate versus when directness is needed
- Intent consideration: Recognizing the purpose behind language choices
- Audience awareness: Adapting language to the needs and expectations of listeners or readers
- Continuous learning: Staying informed about evolving language norms
- Prioritizing clarity: Ensuring communication remains clear and effective
Euphemisms and Politically Correct Language in the ЕГЭ English Exam
Reading Comprehension
In the reading section, understanding euphemisms and politically correct language can help you:
- Identify the author's tone and attitude
- Understand implied meanings that are not explicitly stated
- Recognize the context and purpose of a text
- Interpret the author's intent when using indirect language
- Answer questions about cultural and social aspects of language use
Writing Tasks
In the writing section, appropriate use of euphemisms and politically correct language can help you:
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and awareness
- Adapt your language to the formality of the task
- Show sophistication in your vocabulary choices
- Avoid potentially offensive language that could negatively impact your score
- Express opinions on sensitive topics in a respectful manner
Common Exam Tasks Related to Euphemisms and Politically Correct Language
- Identifying euphemisms in a text and explaining their purpose
- Recognizing politically correct terms and understanding why they are used
- Rewriting sentences to make them more appropriate for a specific context
- Analyzing how language choices affect the tone and impact of a text
- Writing about sensitive topics using appropriate language
Practice Examples
Identify the euphemisms in the following sentences and explain what they refer to.
- "After a long illness, my grandmother passed away peacefully in her sleep."
- "The company announced that it would be downsizing its workforce by 15% next month."
- "He's not poor; he's just economically disadvantaged."
- "The government has implemented enhanced interrogation techniques for high-value detainees."
- "She's not old; she's a senior citizen with a wealth of life experience."
Answers:
1. "Passed away" is a euphemism for "died." It softens the bluntness of death and shows respect.
2. "Downsizing" is a euphemism for "firing employees" or "laying off workers." It makes the action sound like a strategic business decision rather than a negative event for the affected employees.
3. "Economically disadvantaged" is a euphemism for "poor." It avoids the potentially stigmatizing term "poor" and frames the condition in terms of relative advantage rather than absolute lack.
4. "Enhanced interrogation techniques" is a euphemism for "torture." It disguises potentially illegal or unethical treatment of prisoners as a legitimate security procedure.
5. "Senior citizen with a wealth of life experience" is a euphemism for "old person." It emphasizes positive aspects of aging (experience) while avoiding the potentially negative connotations of "old."
Replace the underlined words or phrases with more politically correct alternatives.
- "The handicapped parking spaces are located near the entrance."
- "The company has hired several elderly workers with valuable experience."
- "She works with poor children in inner-city schools."
- "The policeman responded quickly to the emergency call."
- "The program provides support for third-world countries."
Answers:
1. "The accessible parking spaces are located near the entrance." (Alternative: "parking spaces for people with disabilities")
2. "The company has hired several older adults with valuable experience." (Alternative: "seniors")
3. "She works with children from low-income families in inner-city schools." (Alternative: "economically disadvantaged children")
4. "The police officer responded quickly to the emergency call."
5. "The program provides support for developing nations." (Alternative: "Global South countries")
Determine whether each statement uses a euphemism, politically correct language, or direct language.
- "The patient is terminally ill and has only a few months to live."
- "We need to let you go due to budget constraints."
- "People experiencing homelessness need access to social services."
- "The bathroom is down the hall to your right."
- "Students with learning differences may require additional support."
Answers:
1. Direct language. "Terminally ill" is a straightforward medical term that clearly communicates the patient's condition without softening or obscuring it.
2. Euphemism. "Let you go" is a euphemism for "fire" or "terminate employment." It softens the harsh reality of job loss.
3. Politically correct language. "People experiencing homelessness" uses person-first language to avoid defining individuals by their housing status, which would be the case with terms like "homeless people."
4. Direct language. "Bathroom" is now considered a direct, neutral term for this facility, though it originated as a euphemism.
5. Politically correct language. "Learning differences" is a politically correct term that avoids potentially stigmatizing terms like "learning disabilities" or "learning problems."
Rewrite each sentence to make it more appropriate for a formal academic context.
- "The old people in the study showed better memory than expected."
- "The experiment was done on normal kids and blind kids."
- "Poor families can't afford healthy food."
- "The boss fired three workers because they were always late."
- "Lots of illegal aliens are scared to seek medical help."
Answers:
1. "The older adults in the study demonstrated better memory performance than anticipated."
2. "The experiment was conducted with both sighted children and children with visual impairments."
3. "Families with low socioeconomic status often have limited access to nutritious food options."
4. "The employer terminated the employment of three individuals due to consistent tardiness."
5. "Many undocumented immigrants are reluctant to seek medical assistance due to concerns about their legal status."
Key Points to Remember
- Euphemisms are mild or indirect expressions used in place of words or phrases that might be considered harsh, unpleasant, or offensive.
- Politically correct language refers to words or expressions designed to avoid offense or disadvantage to members of particular groups in society.
- Functions: Both serve important social functions, including showing politeness, avoiding taboos, and respecting diverse identities.
- Context matters: The appropriateness of euphemisms and politically correct language depends on the setting, audience, and purpose of communication.
- Evolution: Language norms change over time, and what is considered appropriate or inappropriate evolves with societal attitudes.
- Balance: Effective communication requires balancing clarity and directness with sensitivity and respect.
- Cultural awareness: Understanding cultural differences in language use is important for international communication.
Exam Tip!
In the ЕГЭ English exam, you may encounter questions related to euphemisms and politically correct language in the reading section, or you may need to use appropriate language in the writing section. Remember:
- Pay attention to context clues that help you identify euphemisms and understand their intended meanings
- Be aware of current politically correct terminology, especially for topics commonly discussed in exams (e.g., environment, education, technology, social issues)
- In writing tasks, adapt your language to the formality of the situation and the sensitivity of the topic
- When discussing potentially sensitive topics, demonstrate awareness of appropriate terminology
- If you're unsure about the most current politically correct term, opt for neutral language that focuses on the person rather than the characteristic
Understanding and appropriately using euphemisms and politically correct language demonstrates linguistic sophistication and cultural awareness, which can positively impact your exam score.