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This minced oath, usually used to express surprise or annoyance, is another one used instead of “Jesus Christ.”
See also: English words that have a different meaning in other languages
"Fudge," as well as "fadge" and other variants, is a minced oath used in place of the f-word.
This one's used as an expression of disbelief, instead of “shut the f*** up.”
From surprise to annoyance, this minced oath is used instead of “Jesus Christ.”
This one comes from “darnation” (as in “darn”), but it’s also influenced by tarnal (from eternal). It’s mostly used in the US in the expression "what in tarnation," as in “what the hell.”
This term, used to express surprise, is likely an euphemism for “Holy Mary.” Though the reference to the fish itself may be because Catholics were once nicknamed "mackerel snappers" because they’d consume fish on Fridays.
This expression of surprise is also often used instead of “Oh my God.”
Most of us are familiar with this one. Often used to express surprise or frustration, “geez” is a minced oath for the name “Jesus.” It has other variations, including “gee.”
“Golly” is an euphemism for God. It may, however, also be a compaction of “God′s body.”
This euphemism, used to express astonishment, anger, or disappointment, is voiced instead of “son of a b****.”
"For goodness' sake" is yet another minced version of “for Christ's sake.”
This is yet another minced oath used to express surprise, amazement, or shock, instead of “oh my God” in this case.
Yes, we all know this one. It’s used instead of the f-word. It has many variants, including "effing," "flaming," "flipping," "fricking," and "frigging."
This expression, which is often used to express frustration or annoyance, is actually a minced version of “for Christ's sake.”
This Old English oath comes from "By God," and it’s used to express wonder and zeal. It was commonly used before charging into battle!
Once we’re into minced oaths used to avoid blasphemous terms, we also have “for Pete's sake,” which is an euphemism of “for Christ's sake” or “for God's sake.” "Pete," however, can also be a reference to Saint Peter, or indeed an euphemistic variant of “for pity's sake.”
"Crikey" is used as a substitute for "Christ." It’s commonly used to express astonishment and surprise.
The word “blimey” is mostly used to express surprise or excitement. It is believed to be derived from “(God) blind me” or “blame me.”
These indirect expressions are softer than the profane word, but still carry the same intent. We have been using them in the English language ever since the 1500s. Now, let’s take a look at some popular minced oaths.
Minced oaths are euphemisms used for profane, blasphemous, or taboo words and expressions.
These terms are deliberately misspelled and mispronounced to avoid the word in question, but express the message all the same.
Rhyme and alliteration are used to remove the objectionable characteristics of the word. E.g. "darn" instead of "damn," or "gosh" instead of "God."
This is a very popular one. "Darn" is a minced oath of "damn." It was first seen in the Pennsylvania Magazine of 1781. "Darn" has many derived terms, including "darn good," "darn it," "darn right," "darn well," and "give a darn."
"Heck" is a popular euphemism for "hell." It’s most commonly used in idioms or as an intensifier.
The use of this popular euphemism for "God" was first seen in a 1757 play by English dramatist Samuel Foote, called ‘Then there’s the highest – and lowest.’ It’s usually used to express surprise or enthusiasm.
While some of us would like to swear and say certain words sometimes, even if they might be considered rude, it's not always appropriate to do so. Luckily, the English language has these amazing euphemisms called minced oaths, which allow us to express our emotions without actually using foul language.
If you're wondering what the heck minced oaths are, then just read this gallery, for crying out loud!
These old terms are believed to have originated in “by her lady” and “God’s blood.” They're often used to emphasize something or express anger.
“Stinking,” which is derived from the Old English word “stincende,” can be used as an euphemistic intensifier. E.g. “You have a stinking attitude.”
This euphemism for "Christ" is often used to express surprise or annoyance.
Americans sometimes opt for "oh shoot" instead of "oh s***!"
“Holy moley” is an euphemism for “Holy Mary,” which is often used to express surprise.
What the heck are minced oaths, and what do they mean?
We'll tell you, goshdarnit!
LIFESTYLE Euphemisms
While some of us would like to swear and say certain words sometimes, even if they might be considered rude, it's not always appropriate to do so. Luckily, the English language has these amazing euphemisms called minced oaths, which allow us to express our emotions without actually using foul language.
If you're wondering what the heck minced oaths are, then just read this gallery, for crying out loud!