Taboo and Euphemisms

Introduction
Taboo and Euphemism in Language
● Language is the carrier of culture and an
important part of the culture.
● Language is a social phenomenon.
● Taboos and Euphemisms are two common and
closely related language phenomenon.
 What is a Taboo ?
➔Definition :
A word known to speakers but avoided in so me ,most or all forms or
contexts of speech for reasons of religion ,decorum,politeness etc .
➔Words or expressions that are considered :
1. Offensive
2. Shocking
3. Blasphemous
4. Indecent
And are not supposed to be used are called taboo words.
Examples of Taboos :
Why do people use taboo words ?
➔ When it is not socially acceptable ,to use a word in everyday
situations,the word becomes more powerful.

➔ Teenagers use words to sound cool and rebel against authority.

➔ Heated arguments
Classification of English Taboos:

➔ Taboo words are roughly divided into three categories :

1. Sacred Words
2. Sly Words
3. Insulting Words
 Euphemisms
➔
Origin of the word :
★ Euphemism comes from the Greek language .
★ Eu means good while phemism means language
discourse .
★ Therefore literally means - speak with good words in
a pleasant manner .
➔ Definition :
An euphemism is a word or phrase that replaces a
taboo word or that is used in the attempt to avoid
either fearful or unpleasant subjects.
Examples of Euphemisms

Example:

1.For “die” instead of pass on / away.

2.Saying she passed away instead of saying she died.
3.Saying big boned instead of heavy or overweight.
 Classification of English Euphemisms

1.Euphemisms closely related to Taboo words.

2.Euphemisms related to Courtesy.
3.Euphemisms related to Politics.
 Conclusion
➔ Language is the carrier of culture and an important part of the national
culture.

➔ In real life people always use taboo words for some reasons or things
and substitute then in euphemisms.