Dysphemism is the antithesis of euphemism. Dysphemism is the purposeful use of harsh, blunt, or insulting language, in contrast to euphemism, which entails the substitution of softer or more socially acceptable phrases for harsh or unpleasant ones. Dysphemism is the deliberate exaggeration of a word or phrase's negative meaning, usually for rhetorical or emotive impact. Dysphemisms, in contrast to euphemisms, highlight or amplify the destructive features of the issue at hand.