SourceWatch needs your financial support to survive and thrive. If you've found this information on the people, organizations, and issues shaping the public agenda helpful, please make a tax-deductible donation now.

From SourceWatch

Euphemisms are used to make something not sound as bad as it is.

Examples

• passed away: died
• went to heaven: died (often used with children, as in "Grandma went to heaven.")
• fatal injury: death
• fatality: dead/killed person
• fence: wall
• casualties: deaths and injuries
• collateral damage: damage, death, injury to non-combatants and their property
• sharpshooter: sniper
• promoting democracy: enforcing hegemonic rule
• active defending: attacking

See also doublespeak.