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Multiple Choice

The description 'negative patient outcome' in a medical report is best identified as which rhetorical device?

Using milder language to refer to a bad result is euphemism. In a medical report, saying "negative patient outcome" softens and generalizes what happened, avoiding blunt terms. It’s not a metaphor because there’s no implied comparison to something else. It’s not hyperbole because there’s no exaggeration; it’s simply a softer label. It’s not irony because the wording doesn’t show a contrast between what’s said and what’s meant. Euphemisms can keep professional tone and sensitivity, even though they may obscure specifics.

Using milder language to refer to a bad result is euphemism. In a medical report, saying "negative patient outcome" softens and generalizes what happened, avoiding blunt terms. It’s not a metaphor because there’s no implied comparison to something else. It’s not hyperbole because there’s no exaggeration; it’s simply a softer label. It’s not irony because the wording doesn’t show a contrast between what’s said and what’s meant. Euphemisms can keep professional tone and sensitivity, even though they may obscure specifics.