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July 29, 2011

Strange But True!

Q. In today's tough economy, what are a few money-based euphemisms gaining wider currency?

A. Money is one of our most taboo topics, with people reluctant to talk about how much they earn, own or owe, says Ralph Keyes in “Euphemania: Our Love Affair with Euphemisms.” In past eras, money wasn't as rich a source of linguistic evasion. Today, those who don't have enough money are “financially insecure,” or with “limited means,” or “a little short.” Others are no longer “tapped out” but simply having “cash-flow” problems. As one strapped lady prefers, she's “under budget restraint.”


 
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