It explains the "euphemism treadmill," where a new, polite word eventually becomes "tainted" by the reality it describes and must be replaced by a newer, even more sterile term.
The author maintains a dry, scholarly humor throughout. He treats the human tendency toward obfuscation as both a necessary social lubricant and a dangerous tool for political manipulation.
The book is exceptionally well-indexed, allowing you to follow a trail of related terms (e.g., from "perspiration" to "sweat"). A DICTIONARY Euphemisms ^Other Doubletalk
Rawson explores the evolution of "doubletalk"—words and phrases designed to make the bad seem good or the taboo seem acceptable. The book is organized alphabetically and covers a vast range of human experience, categorized into two main types:
Rawson doesn't just define terms; he traces their origins. You’ll learn how Victorian-era modesty turned "legs" into "limbs" and how corporate "restructuring" became a standard mask for mass layoffs. It explains the "euphemism treadmill," where a new,
A Dictionary of Euphemisms & Other Doubletalk by is a definitive, witty guide to the art of "linguistic hygiene." Rather than a dry reference, it serves as a cultural history of how we use language to mask unpleasant realities, avoid offense, or deliberately mislead. Core Premise and Scope
This dictionary is less about "correct" English and more about the . It is an essential read for writers, linguists, or anyone interested in how language can be used to either bridge gaps or build walls between people and the truth. The book is exceptionally well-indexed, allowing you to
The dictionary tackles "The Big Three" of euphemisms: death, sex, and bodily functions. However, it is equally strong on modern domains like bureaucracy, war, and political correctness. Notable Features