EUPHEMISTIC LANGUAGE IN THE DIPLOMATIC DISCOURSE

Abstract

Language can be used to reduce differences or produce violence. It is rarely neutral and often shapes perception and behavior. The present communication is an attempt of studying the use of euphemisms in the diplomatic discourse, as a way of reaching agreement, which combines precision with ambiguity. The skill of finding formulations which avoid offence and are acceptable by both sides are often referred to as a “diplomatic” discourse. The explicit interchange of utterances might be sometimes embarrassing if we do not make use of metaphors or figures of speech. People have always tried to use less disturbing expressions instead of the hurtful ones. The diplomatic use of language is of major importance, since language is not a simple tool of communication or vehicle for transmission the thoughts, but very often mitigates the negative social phenomena. Therefore, the research that has been presented in this communication provided new opportunities, as well as challenges, for the study of euphemistic usage in the diplomatic discourse and its increasingly complex nature.