Vocabulary: Euphemistic
Euphemistic vocabulary: Using indirect or softer language to avoid offense or unpleasantness, often by substituting a mild or vague term for a harsh or blunt one.
Why a writer would use it
A writer would use euphemistic vocabulary to share sensitive or uncomfortable information in a way that is easier for the audience to accept.
This is especially useful for topics like death, illness, or controversial issues.
Use-case
A company might use euphemistic vocabulary in a press release to announce layoffs, saying "downsizing" or "rightsizing" instead of "firing employees."
A couple more examples:
1. "Passed away" instead of "died"
Using "passed away" can be a gentler way to announce someone's death, especially in a formal or professional setting.
2. "Collateral damage" instead of "civilian casualties"
In military or political contexts, using "collateral damage" can be a way to acknowledge harm to civilians without directly stating it.
Effect on AI prompts
When AI models are trained on texts that use euphemistic vocabulary, they may find it hard to understand the subtle meanings and context.
This can lead to AI-generated text that is too vague or unclear, or that misses the intended message. Additionally, AI models might not recognize the tone or intent behind euphemistic language, which can cause misunderstandings or miscommunication.