Noun

{{examples-right, examples= * fib'' for '' * correctional facility'' for ''prison'' (compare dysphemism: ''slammer ) * sleep (with)]]'' for ''[[have sex, have sex (with)'' (compare dysphemisms: ''bang'', ''fuck ) * pass away'' for '' * vertically challenged'' for ''short'' (physical stature; compare dysphemisms: ''midget'', ''dwarf ) }}

(uncountable) The use of a word or phrase to replace another with one that is considered less offensive, blunt or vulgar than the word or phrase it replaces.

(countable) A word or phrase that is used to replace another in this way.

Noun

(en noun) (US)

The act of offending:

# a crime or sin

#* {{quote-book, year=2006, author=

, title=Internal Combustion , chapter=2 citation , passage=The popular late Middle Ages fictional character Robin Hood, dressed in green to symbolize the forest, dodged fines for forest offenses and stole from the rich to give to the poor. But his appeal was painfully real and embodied the struggle over wood.}}

# an affront, insult or injury.

#* Dryden

I have given my opinion against the authority of two great men, but I hope without offence to their memories.

The state of being offended or displeased; anger; displeasure.

) A strategy and tactics employed when in position to score; ''contrasted with defense.

) The portion of a team dedicated to scoring when in position to do so; ''contrasted with defense.