Which word means use of an inoffensive word or phrase in place of a more distasteful one?

• A. euphemism
• B. exculpate
• C. exigent
• D. fawn

Answer: (A)

This term describes a linguistic strategy: using a softer, inoffensive word or phrase in place of a harsher or more distasteful one. It’s about softening the impact of what’s being said.

For example, saying someone “passed away” instead of “died” or referring to layoffs as “downsizing” are euphemisms. The other words don’t capture this idea: exculpate means to clear someone of blame, exigent means urgent or requiring immediate action, and fawn means to show excessive flattery. Among these, the one that matches the concept of substituting a milder term is euphemism.