Rawson often highlights how the length of a euphemism is usually proportional to the severity of the truth it hides.
The author maintains a dry, scholarly humor throughout. He treats the human tendency toward obfuscation as both a necessary social lubricant and a dangerous tool for political manipulation.
This dictionary is less about "correct" English and more about the . It is an essential read for writers, linguists, or anyone interested in how language can be used to either bridge gaps or build walls between people and the truth. A DICTIONARY Euphemisms ^Other Doubletalk
A Dictionary of Euphemisms & Other Doubletalk by is a definitive, witty guide to the art of "linguistic hygiene." Rather than a dry reference, it serves as a cultural history of how we use language to mask unpleasant realities, avoid offense, or deliberately mislead. Core Premise and Scope
The book is exceptionally well-indexed, allowing you to follow a trail of related terms (e.g., from "perspiration" to "sweat"). Rawson often highlights how the length of a
These inflate the status of something humble (e.g., calling a janitor a "sanitary engineer").
It explains the "euphemism treadmill," where a new, polite word eventually becomes "tainted" by the reality it describes and must be replaced by a newer, even more sterile term. This dictionary is less about "correct" English and
The dictionary tackles "The Big Three" of euphemisms: death, sex, and bodily functions. However, it is equally strong on modern domains like bureaucracy, war, and political correctness. Notable Features