Question

Why does Squealer use the term "readjustment" instead of "reduction"? "For the time being, certainly, it had been found necessary to make a readjustment of rations (Squealer always spoke of it as a "readjustment," never as a "reduction") but in comparison with the days of Jones, the improvement was enormous."

Answer 1

Squealer has a kinder personality, and likes to keep morale as high as possible. Therefore, using readjustment, which has a more positive connotation than reduction, prevents the lack of rations from dampening the mood so intensely.