A dysphemism is defined as?

• A. A polite term
• B. A neutral term
• C. A harsh or insulting term; example: calling someone a rat
• D. A metaphorical device

Answer: (C)

A dysphemism is a harsh or insulting term used to express contempt or to demean someone. It deliberately carries a strong, negative connotation to provoke a hostile reaction or to devalue the subject. Calling someone a rat illustrates this because it invokes a disliked, sneaky image and an insult, rather than simply describing them.

This differs from a polite term, which would aim to be courteous and respectful, and from a neutral term, which states something without emotional charge. A metaphorical device is a broader category of figurative language; a dysphemism is specifically about using negative, insulting word choice, not just about employing metaphor.