In this episode of the Business English Podcast, Lindsay and Michelle discuss the use of euphemisms in the workplace, defining what they are and why they are used. They explore several examples, such as "let go" instead of "fired," "spin the truth" instead of "lie," "restructuring" to mask layoffs, "resign" as a softer alternative to "quit," and "between jobs" instead of "unemployed." The hosts discuss the nuances of each euphemism, when and why they might be used, and the importance of understanding the context behind them. They highlight that while euphemisms can soften the impact of harsh realities and help build relationships, it's crucial to be aware of their use and avoid using them to hide the truth. The episode concludes with a role-play demonstrating how these euphemisms might be used in a conversation between coworkers, followed by a breakdown of the dialogue.
