Question

When food rations had to be cut, why did Squealer speak of it as a "readjustment," never as a "reduction"?

Answer 1

"Readjustment" is a euphemism for "reduction" it is a term which is much less harsh.  If squealer had said that there would be "reduction" of food, the animals might understand the fact that they are going to have less to eat  while the pigs and dogs are going to have more.  There can be some words that are harsher than others depending in which way you use them. Hope this helps...