Euphemistic Language

Euphemistic language is less offensive a word which is not too directed, harsh, unpleasant, and offensive used in daily conversation to avoid other people get offended by us. There are many opinions about euphemistic language from different people.

1.

Noam Chomsky stated that euphemistic language words have negative and positive connotation, some words are for formal content while some are for informal content. He also said the words is changed but the meaning may still stay the same so there is no meaning to use euphemistic language. Noam Chomsky believes that in today’s uncertain world you cannot reveal too much or yourself or they will crucify you.

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Michel Foucalt have different perspective from Noam Chomsky, he said that euphemistic language is honest and direct language. There are is no such thing as positive and negative words. He believe that the appropriateness is depends on the content.

These two people have different perspectives towards euphemistic language. For me, euphemistic language can be good to used as it is sound more polite and not offended others. In my opinion, Malay has applying euphemistic language since long time ago. As I notice, Malay race used to talk politely and avoid saying their opinion out loud in public. But, sometimes it is no good because when we talk at the back it might affected our relationship with others if they heard we talk bad about them. So, just remind ourselves to watch our words before say something or we might offended others and perhaps put ourselves in trouble. However, there are many interesting words from used as euphemistic language which for it is rational to use although it is sound funny. There are some examples of euphemistic language that I have learned from Critical Literacy class and also from George Carlin Show:

1. Negative cash flow position= no money

2. Johns/washroom/ladies room= toilet

3. Appearance disorder= ugly

4. Arguing sperm= rape victim

5. Flight deck=cockpit

6. Lady in the evening= transvestite

7. Personal belonging= stuff which you take along with

8. Low cost housing=cemetery

9. Wrongdoers=criminal

10. Chubby/Obesiti/Overweight=fat

This is my own syllogism for circumstances of Julius Caesar death:

According to Brutus, an honourable man

Caesar was ambitious

Ambitious man would love to be a King

Caesar refuses it thrice

Thus, Caesar was not ambitious

Therefore Brutus is an honourable man