What do you call this linguistic/social device? You are in a social situation, and want to get out. You say maybe, 'I'm going to be late for a meeting', when both people KNOW there is no meeting. But since you are being SO OBVIOUS, you are, in effect, telling them you are leaving. By being obvious, you are not evading, or lying, you are being creatively blunt. [more inside]
posted by ebesan on Sep 29, 2009 - 27 answers

I need some fun and creative euphemisms for telling someone his/her fly is open. [more inside]
posted by amyms on Mar 26, 2009 - 39 answers

Is (or was, since it sounds quaint now) the phrase "the birds and the bees" mostly an American thing or is it also used in other english-speaking countries as a euphemism in reference to sex education. What other euphemisms or idioms are used around the world within the context of sex education (not formal sex education in a classroom setting, more along the lines of "The Talk" parents have with their kids). I'm interested in phrases used in other languages too.
posted by amyms on Jul 24, 2008 - 25 answers

Seeking a word: Is there a term other than "euphemism" for couching an insult in fancy-sounding words, so your insult sounds less harsh to the inattentive ear? [more inside]
posted by LobsterMitten on Dec 12, 2007 - 63 answers

I need some euphemisms for a bald head. After 'chrome dome' and 'cue ball' I'm coming empty. Know any good ones?
posted by DandyRandy on Aug 10, 2006 - 31 answers

Why do we use euphemistic names for some kinds of meat? [more inside]
posted by 5MeoCMP on Dec 4, 2005 - 52 answers

It strikes me that English doesn't have any good words for genitalia. I attribute this to our repressed culture. Any words for our naughty parts are either porn words, schoolkid words, or clinical. Can anyone think of some good words for the privates? (Obviously there will be some raw language inside this question.) [more inside]
posted by jojopizza on May 17, 2005 - 73 answers