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Question

A phrase is given which can be substituted by one word. Choose the most appropriate word explaining the phrase from the given options.

The deliberate avoidance of mentioning a harsh or unpleasant reality by using mild or indirect expressions

The correct answer is

Euphemism

A euphemism is a mild or indirect word or expression used in place of one considered too harsh, blunt or unpleasant, for example “passed away” for “died” or “let go” for “dismissed”.

Step 1 — The phrase describes “the deliberate avoidance of mentioning a harsh or unpleasant reality by using mild or indirect expressions”. That is the exact definition of a euphemism.

Step 2 — “Circumlocution” is the use of many words where fewer would do, talking around a subject. It concerns wordiness, not specifically softening an unpleasant truth.

Step 3 — “Collocation” is the habitual pairing of words, such as “make a decision” or “heavy rain”; it has nothing to do with softening.

Step 4 — “Litotes” is understatement made by denying the opposite, as in “not bad” for “good”. It is a figure of understatement, not a general substitute for a harsh reality.

Euphemism option is correct.

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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

  1. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

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    I could not go up in lifefor want ofproper guidance.

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    Though he was arrogant, I could notdispense withhis services.

  5. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    In spite of his hard work, he wasmade a scapegoatfor the failure of the project

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