How Not To Say What You Mean

This book practically flung itself off the shelf at me.

After years of reading how to do it write, keep it simple, follow all the friggin' rules or else writing craft books, this one struck me funny.

A dictionary of euphemisms, those little phrases employed when we're too restrained to say what we really want to say. Or too shy. Or just plain chicken.

Here's a taste.

What you don't want your doctor to call you -- negative patient care outcome.

Dead, in other words.

Don't go here -- Irish vacation.

Prison.

I think they may be confused -- Irish toothache.

Either pregnant or an erection.

Some of these cross the border into rude, perhaps even, beyond the pale, and may not be for faint-hearted or politically-correct leaning individuals.

Writers, on the other hand, must stay abreast of society, language and every other thing that might be fun to look up.

Enjoy.