Spring Break
Euphemisms enrich language
By: Benjamin Williams
Issue date: 9/21/07 Section: Opinion
Words have meaning, and there are jobs that spin around those meanings. Some of these words are actually called good words, or euphemisms. For historical bonus points, the counterpoint is very different-blaspheme! Some in our society argue that euphemisms are bad because they cover up our true feelings. It is these good words, however, that embody the evolution of our language, and should be used as often as possible.
It is incredible that a simple set of words and phrases can ease pain, and help people deal with the harsh realities of life. Furthermore, euphemisms build regional identity and allow children to keep their innocence.
Euphemisms, also known as doublespeak and double-entendres, are different connotations of the same words. A great example to start with is a word that children learn in preschool. In English we have a word "donkey" replacing the old European-derived word "ass". Winnie the Pooh never would have had Eeyore as a friend if not for this word, and a movie such as Shrek, would not have been nearly as funny.
The word "yonder" is a meaningless southern word that people, in particular our grandparents, use to describe the location of something. A standard "yonder," describes distance. This euphemism can refer to something in the next room or county. After much thought, yonder is like something out of a "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie: Isla de Meurta, a place that can only be found by those who already know where it is.
"The whole nine yards," "blackballed," "adult entertainment," and "put to sleep," are all examples of touchy phrases in society that we use to hide the unwanted truth. "The whole nine yards," is a military expression that means, fire all 27 feet of your bullets. "Blackballed," is a Masonic term that refers to rejection. "Adult entertainment" and "put to sleep" follow the same logic.
Even at First Yell, Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood included a game called "If You Know What I Mean." Loaded words and colloquial phrases sent people to tears for a solid 15 minutes. Heck, even Colin Mochrie's last name might be a euphemism!
Jobs ranging from politics, broadcasting, preaching, selling, and even teaching utilize the evolution of the English language to strengthen the impact of arguments, and lighten the blow to our emotions. Increasing amounts of humor surge from the play on words, and kids are allowed to retain a bit of innocence.
Euphemisms expand the excitement of verbal and written language. They allow people to convey multiple messages with a single statement and it is up to the listener to think outside the box to find the true, intended meaning. Encouraging people to think is a great thing! Good words, doublespeak, or euphemisms are the spice of our language, and people should use them as often as possible.
It is incredible that a simple set of words and phrases can ease pain, and help people deal with the harsh realities of life. Furthermore, euphemisms build regional identity and allow children to keep their innocence.
Euphemisms, also known as doublespeak and double-entendres, are different connotations of the same words. A great example to start with is a word that children learn in preschool. In English we have a word "donkey" replacing the old European-derived word "ass". Winnie the Pooh never would have had Eeyore as a friend if not for this word, and a movie such as Shrek, would not have been nearly as funny.
The word "yonder" is a meaningless southern word that people, in particular our grandparents, use to describe the location of something. A standard "yonder," describes distance. This euphemism can refer to something in the next room or county. After much thought, yonder is like something out of a "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie: Isla de Meurta, a place that can only be found by those who already know where it is.
"The whole nine yards," "blackballed," "adult entertainment," and "put to sleep," are all examples of touchy phrases in society that we use to hide the unwanted truth. "The whole nine yards," is a military expression that means, fire all 27 feet of your bullets. "Blackballed," is a Masonic term that refers to rejection. "Adult entertainment" and "put to sleep" follow the same logic.
Even at First Yell, Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood included a game called "If You Know What I Mean." Loaded words and colloquial phrases sent people to tears for a solid 15 minutes. Heck, even Colin Mochrie's last name might be a euphemism!
Jobs ranging from politics, broadcasting, preaching, selling, and even teaching utilize the evolution of the English language to strengthen the impact of arguments, and lighten the blow to our emotions. Increasing amounts of humor surge from the play on words, and kids are allowed to retain a bit of innocence.
Euphemisms expand the excitement of verbal and written language. They allow people to convey multiple messages with a single statement and it is up to the listener to think outside the box to find the true, intended meaning. Encouraging people to think is a great thing! Good words, doublespeak, or euphemisms are the spice of our language, and people should use them as often as possible.
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