On Euphemisms, Linguistic Creativity, and Humor

Abstract

In our paper for this issue of Lexis on humor, creativity, and lexical creation, we report findings from an original task about euphemism creation. For our study, subjects quickly produced new euphemisms in nominal compound form in English and defined them. In the task, subjects were provided with a list to select nouns from which came other attested euphemisms in nominal compound form in English. Nominal compounds have been studied extensively; they are a great source of creativity, often yielding interesting collocations designed for various purposes. Euphemisms are also a source of creativity, and studying their form and function uncovers an interesting interface where syntax and semantics meet. As we report here, new euphemisms in nominal compound form can be created and defined quickly, and not only for the purpose of doublespeak, but also for humorous purposes. In fact, humor is another pragmatic effect that euphemisms can generate. This study answers questions about lexical creativity and humor, and it contributes to the growing literature on pragmatic effects caused by figurative language.

Keywords

• euphemism
• creativity
• nominal compounds
• conceptual integration
• pragmatic effects