Эвфемизмы в современном английском языке на материале электронных британских СМИ

Abstract

Today euphemisms are widely used to make something sound better than it actually is, especially in the sphere of politics and news reviews. Euphemism is a language tactic often used in the process of conveying information. In English mass media euphemisms can be found everywhere. According to the purposes of the euphemism users, the functions of euphemism lie in two aspects: the function of achieving elegance and the function of covering up. The use of euphemisms enables people to talk about embarrassing, painful or inappropriate issues that are considered to be social taboos. Though well-intended the use of euphemisms has gone too far. What was once an effort at accuracy has in some aspects become excessive. Euphemisms used in modern British mass media appear and vanish at the extreme speed, that’s why critical thinkers should strive to remain aware of euphemisms that conceal reality and should make every effort on their own to use words that are accurate and precise.