Abstract

This paper examines how euphemisms for terrorism have pervaded the media and the English language for the past few decades. On the whole, a euphemism refers to an agreeable expression that has replaced a more unpleasant one, even though the latter is more accurate and truthful. This analysis attempts to answer the following question: do euphemisms for terrorism help the international community? A major conclusion is that euphemisms are dangerous because they constitute language manipulation and separate the message from the meaning. By calling terrorists ‘radicals’, ‘insurgents’, or ‘rebels’, Western media and governments operate on the principle of semantic deviance and deflect attention away from reality. This could cause citizens to lower their guard in times where they should feel in danger.