JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

December 1987

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent question concerning the use of slang expressions such as "gosh" and "gee."

Such words are known as euphemisms. According to the "Random House Dictionary of the English Language," a euphemism is "the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensively harsh or blunt."

Many common expressions such as "gosh" and "gee" are used as substitutes for the names of God the Father and Jesus Christ. They are thinly disguised expressions of strong profanity and are actually blasphemous.

God's instruction is to "let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth" (Eph. 4:29). This certainly applies to any careless speaking or using slang expressions or euphemisms which would profane God's name.

We are not able to provide a list of euphemisms and their derivations. For that type of information, we suggest going to your local library. The librarian should be able to help you locate a dictionary of slang expressions which will state plainly what a euphemism is REALLY saying.

We hope you will let us know whenever we can assist you further with your study of the Bible. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT