Abstract: As a secondary language, phatic communion plays an important role in shortening the distance and maintaining relationship between the communicators. This paper firstly, I introduced phatic communion definition, characteristics and functions. Then I analyzed four aspects of differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, such as Sentences Structures, Topics, Purposes and Taboo. Lastly, I had a conclusion of the reasons for the differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, such as Cultural Factors, Social Factors and Values. This paper tried to study the differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, which aiming at understanding and using phatic communion in western countries appropriately, so as to promote a good relationship between each other, to better achieve cross—cultural communication.

Key words: Chinese phatic communion; English phatic communion; Phatic communion differences

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Introduction to Phatic Communion....1

2.1 Definition and Classification of Phatic Communion

2.2 Features and Functions of Phatic Communion

3. Analysis the Differences between Chinese and English Phatic Communion....3

3.1 Sentence Structures

3.2 Topics

3.3 Purposes

3.4 Taboo

4. Reasons for the Differences between Chinese and English Phatic Communion...6

4.1 Cultural Factors

4.2 Social Factors

4.3 Values 

5. Conclusion