Sir, – My edition of the Oxford Dictionary defines a euphemism as "an indirect word or phrase that people often use to refer to something embarrassing or unpleasant, to make it seem more acceptable than it really is". Whether one agrees with her views on abortion or not, Maria Steen ("'Pro-choice' euphemisms are a way of repressing debate on abortion", Opinion & Analysis, April 23rd) is right when she maintains that no matter how it is described, abortion does involve the ending of innocent human life. It seems to me that in such a serious matter correct use of language is absolutely essential. – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL McCANN,
Knocknacarra,
Galway.