Euphanisms and connotations.

3) boy, man, gentleman, male, lad.

The word boy connotes a younger person, and we link the word to ideas such as football, sports and computer games. The reason for this is because these are typical boy activities, and usually come up in boy conversation. The word man has similar connotations, however we just think of an older person (mid twenties onwards). We associate a man with working/middle class, just an average person. The word gentleman has older connotations, and we think of the 1800's where that word would've been more frequently used. The word male has a more matter-of-fact tone. It is for someone of any age, and therefore has slight scientific connotations. The word lad again has a younger connotation, and we think of a confident, 'jack-the-lad' type character.

5) mature, old, experienced, senior, elderly.

The words 'mature' and 'experienced' link together well here. They connote respect towards older people (60 onwards). It tip toes around the idea that someone is older without sounding harsh. We think of someone who has lived through alot and knows alot/is wise. The word old is straight to the point, and it is a more opinionated word. At the age of twenty one you can say your old, but it can also be used at the age of eighty, forty, thirty. The word senior has american connotations, and again has a tone of repsect to it. The word elderly is similar in the sense of respect, as it avoids rudeness. We think of someone above the age of 70 here, with grey hair and wrinkles.




The word 'pre-owned' is softened from the more harsher meaning that it is used, and probably not in the best conditions. It is formal and we usually see it on sales websited, e.g. Ebay.
The phrase 'to powder ones nose' again is just a formal way of excusing yourself from a situation, like dinner, to go to the toilet. It is more respectful and polite than saying 'I'm going for a wee'.
The phrase 'to sleep with someone' avoids offending people and being impolite, because it means to have sex, which someone people find an offensive or rough subject. There are also many taboo words associated with sex therefore it can be seen as a rude topic.