Euphemism and Dysphemism in the War-on -Iraq Discourse

Abstract

The paper explores the use of euphemism and dysphemism in the war-on-Iraq discourse as found in a small number of relevant documents and news reports. A quadrant of euphemizing and dysphemizing is identified. Positive representation of self and negative representation of other are the realizations of the strategic functions of legitimizing and deligitmizing and these are, in turn, important tools of war propaganda and counter-propaganda..