diplomatic language
nounUK /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
US /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
Polite words you use to say something hard without hurting people's feelings.
The teacher used diplomatic language when she told the class their project needed more work.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The formal, careful style of speech used by government officials when talking to other countries.
The two nations settled the border dispute through diplomatic language in their joint statement.
3. Wording chosen to avoid giving offense or revealing too much.
His diplomatic language about the delay kept everyone calm but told us little.
4. Language that softens bad news or criticism so it is easier to accept.
Instead of saying the plan failed, she used diplomatic language and called it a learning step.