Saying something harsh, ugly or forbidden to name in a soft, indirect or disguised way.
In Madame Bovary
with a power of attorney, it would be simple, and then we could do a few little deals
"Little deals" softens with the diminutive what Lheureux actually wants: to stay close to Emma's signature in order to profit from her. The word makes the plan seem small and harmless, said in the tone of friendly advice.
She had ceased to exist.
Part III, Chapter 8, the narrator
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