Vocabulary Worksheet · Grades 5–7
Euphemisms Worksheet
A printable vocabulary worksheet for grades 5-7 on euphemisms: mild, polite phrases used in place of harsher words, like ‘passed away’ for ‘died’. Students give the plain meaning of eight euphemisms, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
Subject
Vocabulary
Grades
Grades 5–7
Skill Focus
Euphemisms, word use
Lesson Length
15 minutes
Lesson Overview
About this worksheet
A euphemism is a mild, polite, or gentle word or phrase used in place of one that might sound harsh, blunt, or unpleasant. People use euphemisms to be kind, avoid hurting feelings, or be polite about touchy subjects – the meaning is the same, but it sounds softer. This worksheet teaches students to recognize euphemisms and what they really mean.
Section A gives eight euphemisms (‘under the weather’; ‘pre-owned car’) and asks students to write the plain meaning. The reference box teaches the idea with ‘passed away’ and ‘let go’, phrases not reused in the items.
Section B asks students to define a euphemism, explain why people use them, write a euphemism for ‘old’, and give one of their own with its real meaning. Page 3 is a complete answer key. The skill sharpens reading between the lines.
How to Use This Lesson
Read the reference box aloud and match each gentle phrase to its plain meaning.
Complete Section A independently – have students restate each euphemism plainly.
Work Section B item 11 together: write a polite euphemism for ‘old’.
Use the answer key on page 3 for self-check or teacher review.
Pair with the Connotation Worksheet or the Idioms Worksheet for a word-use mini-unit.
Printable Resource
A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.
Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 3 pages · Answer Key
Euphemisms Worksheet
A printable vocabulary worksheet for grades 5-7 on euphemisms: mild, polite phrases used in place of harsher words, like ‘passed away’ for ‘died’. Students give the plain meaning of eight euphemisms, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
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