1. A style of writing: This is the original meaning. It refers to an ornate and elaborate style of writing popular in England during the late 16th century. This style was popularized by John Lyly's novel "Euphues" (1578). It was characterized by:
* Intricate sentence structure: Often using balanced clauses, antitheses, and parallelisms.
* Elaborate vocabulary: Including many similes, metaphors, and allusions.
* Focus on wit and elegance: Often using wordplay and clever turns of phrase.
2. An expression: This meaning refers to a particular type of euphemism used to disguise the harshness of reality. It often uses flowery language, indirectness, and ambiguity to soften the blow of a difficult or unpleasant truth.
For example:
* Original meaning: "The author's prose is full of Euphuistic flourishes." (referring to the literary style)
* Expression meaning: "He used a bit of 'Euphuism' when telling her he was leaving." (referring to the use of euphemism to soften a difficult message)
While the two meanings are related, they are distinct. The literary style of Euphuism has largely fallen out of fashion, but the term "Euphuism" is still used to describe a particular type of euphemism, even in casual conversation.