Abstract:There are rich color words in English and Chinese. Not only do we understand their basic meanings, but we also focus on the deep meaning and symbolism of our exploring, because their symbolic meanings in different languages may vary. The difference is mainly caused by different cultural customs, geographical locations, historical traditions, religious belief and aesthetics. It is an eternal cultural phenomenon formed in the social and historical development. From the perspective of the comparison between Chinese and Western cultures, this paper aims to analyze and explore the cultural differences of red, yellow and white. It can help us better understand and learn Western culture to express and communicate more accurately in cross-cultural communication.

Key words: color words; cultural differences; connotation

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Introduction-1

Ⅰ. The Cultural Connotations of Red, Yellow and White in China-4

A.-The Color Word “Red”-4

B.-The Color Word “Yellow”-5

C.-The Color Word “White”-5

Ⅱ. The Cultural Connotations of Red, Yellow and White in the West-7

A.-The Color Word “Red”-7

B.-The Color Word “Yellow”-8

C.-The Color Word “White”-9

Ⅲ. The Differences of Color Words Connotations between Chinese and English-10

A.-Geographical Differences-10

B.-Differences in Religious Beliefs-11

Conclusion-12

Bibliography-13

Acknowledgements-14