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There are words in every language which people instinctively
avoid because they are considered indecent, indelicate, rude, too
direct or impolite. As the "offensive" referents, for which these
words stand, must still be alluded to, they are often described in a
roundabout way, by using substitutes called euphemisms. This
device is determined by social conventions which are sometimes
apt to be over-sensitive, see "indecency" where there is none and
seek refinement in absurd avoidances and pretentiousness.
Numerous euphemisms are used to avoid the so-called social
taboos and are inspired by social convention. To illustrate, the
word lavatory has, naturally, produced many euphemisms. Here
are some of them: powder room, washroom, restroom, retiring
room, (public) comfort station, ladies' room), gentlemen's (room),
water-closet, w. c., public conveniences and even Windsor castle
(which is a comical phrase for "deciphering" w.c.). Pregnancy is
another topic for "delicate" references. Here are some of the
euphemisms used as substitutes for the adjective pregnant: in an
interesting/delicate condiition, in the family way, with a baby
coming, (big) with child, expecting. Euphemisms may, of course,
be used due to genuine concern not to hurt someone's feelings (e.g.
a liar can be described as a person who does not always strictly tell
the truth and a stupid man can be said to be not exactly brilliant

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