Final answer:
The term 'euphemism' refers to the use of less offensive or more pleasant language to replace harsher terms. They serve to address sensitive topics more delicately and are part of an effort to communicate more inclusively and without bias. Writers also advise against unnecessary wordiness to make communication clear and effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
Euphemisms in Language
The word for substituting more pleasant or unoffensive phrasings for harsher or offensive ones is called a euphemism. Euphemisms are commonly used in language to address subjects that are uncomfortable, unpleasant, or socially sensitive. For example, the term 'collateral damage' is often used instead of 'killing civilians in war' to make the subject matter seem less direct and more palatable to the audience.
Language should be concise and direct whenever possible. This means avoiding filler phrases and wordy expressions that add no meaning to the sentence. For instance, 'for all intents and purposes' or 'in a manner of speaking' can often be omitted without changing the sentence's meaning.
In an effort to avoid language bias and to be more inclusive, words with sex and gender bias such as 'fireman' and 'chairman' are often replaced with gender-neutral terms like 'firefighter' and 'chairperson'. The intentional use of gender-neutral language helps reduce bias in communication.
When writing, especially in an academic context, it's essential to eliminate unnecessary words and to make your point effectively without adding superfluous language. This aligns with advice from great writers such as Mark Twain, who advocated for the sparing use of adjectives and a concise writing style to strengthen communication.