Which of the following statements about "euphemism" is true?

The statement that euphemism substitutes a harsh expression for a milder one is accurate because euphemism is a linguistic tool used to soften the impact of a potentially offensive or unpleasant expression. For example, instead of saying someone has "died," one might say they "passed away" or "departed," which helps to cushion the emotional response associated with death. This technique is often employed to address sensitive topics in a more palatable way, making conversations about difficult subjects easier for the speaker and listener alike.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the nature of euphemism. While euphemisms can sometimes carry neutral or even positive connotations, they do not inherently possess a negative connotation. Moreover, euphemisms are not specifically used to replace thought-provoking ideas; rather, they aim to navigate around discomfort. Lastly, euphemisms do not directly indicate a character's emotional turmoil, as they focus more on the language used to describe situations rather than the internal states of characters themselves.