Using euphemisms - 08/27/13 01:28 PM
I wonder if anyone else feels as I do about using euphemisms when talking about death?
In a recent conversation I mentioned a family member who had died, and someone said it sounds unfeeling to say 'died', and I should say something like 'passed away'. I realize there are some situations when it may be okay to use a euphemism - discussing something intimate, maybe, depending on the company - but why use them for death? I don't get it. Maybe my belief in reincarnation makes me more accepting of death than some.
We know that death happens; nothing changes by using some phrase like 'passed away' or 'passed on'. I find such euphemisms annoying - am I on my own in this?
In a recent conversation I mentioned a family member who had died, and someone said it sounds unfeeling to say 'died', and I should say something like 'passed away'. I realize there are some situations when it may be okay to use a euphemism - discussing something intimate, maybe, depending on the company - but why use them for death? I don't get it. Maybe my belief in reincarnation makes me more accepting of death than some.
We know that death happens; nothing changes by using some phrase like 'passed away' or 'passed on'. I find such euphemisms annoying - am I on my own in this?