GENDER-POLITE EUPHEMIZATION AS A MEANS OF TRANSFORMING TABOO VOCABULARY IN CONTEMPORARY RUSSIAN

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive linguistic study of gender-polite euphemization as a significant mechanism for transforming taboo vocabulary in contemporary Russian. In the context of ongoing socio-cultural changes, increasing gender sensitivity, and the re-evaluation of communicative norms, language demonstrates a remarkable capacity for adaptation. Gender-polite euphemization is interpreted as a specific linguo-pragmatic strategy aimed at mitigating, neutralizing, or replacing lexical units that carry negative, discriminatory, or socially undesirable connotations. Particular attention is paid to transformation processes affecting vocabulary related to gender identity, social roles of men and women, professional nominations, as well as physiological and intimate spheres. The article examines how potentially conflict-generating or taboo expressions are substituted with neutral or politically correct forms, contributing to the emergence of a new communicative paradigm. It is argued that gender-polite euphemization functions not only as a tool of linguistic adaptation but also as an indicator of evolving social consciousness and shifting value orientations. The research is based on semantic, pragmatic, and discourse analysis methods, allowing the identification of functional-semantic characteristics of gender-marked euphemisms. The findings suggest a growing institutionalization of gender-inclusive and polite forms in contemporary Russian, reflecting deeper transformations in the linguistic worldview and communicative culture.