Question about phrasing death (details)?

Question

Why do people say (when referring to someone who has died) that they've "passed on" or "passed away" or "crossed over." What's wrong with saying to a friend, "I'm very sorry to hear that your father has died."? Is "died" a bad word now? To say "crossed over" or anything similar sounds cheesy and ridiculous to me.

Answer 1

I agree; although there may be some situations in which a euphemism is called for, almost always I prefer simple language about death. It's a lot easier for children, too.

Answer 2

There is nothing wrong with saying "died". The other expressions are usually "learned" phrases or passed down traditions regarding speaking of death.

The Skeptical Christian
Grace and Peace
Peg

Answer 3

People use choice words to avoid a touchy subject like death. "Died" seems a little bit too informal and insensitive. I like "passed away", personally.

Answer 4

From what I understand about it, some words carry 'mental images. Some words soften the impact; like if a cop shoots somebody, he will say he 'dropped the hammer'. If he kills somebody, he will say he 'took them out'. If you have to kill an animal, you say you 'put them down'. Hope that helps.

Answer 5

Nope death is death and people die all the time ... I myself use all of those terms guess it depends on what kind of mood i'm in!
Bottom line is that they all mean the same thing!

Answer 6

I don't know. This controversy seems rediculous. To those of you who are bothered by the word "died", grow up.

Answer 7

just the way they say it./ its fine your way too
not ridiculous to be talking different from you

Answer 8

here they say that someone has gone or has left.