Abstract:In daily communication, vague language forms a considerable part of language use. Even in the business news reporting emphasizing accuracy and actuality, vague language is also indispensable. Based on the studies on vague language, the thesis mainly analyzes the vague language in the business news in China Daily, the most influential English newspaper in China.

The thesis consists of five chapters. The first chapter is the introduction. The second chapter introduces the research background and definition of vague language. The third chapter analyzes the vague language in business news in China Daily. The fourth chapter explores the pragmatic functions of vague language. And the last chapter is the conclusion. This paper hopes to help readers have a better understanding of language vagueness and its function in journalistic language.

Keywords:  China Daily  vague language  business news    pragmatic functions

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

Chapter Two Vague Language-2

2.1 Research Background-2

2.2 Definitions of Vague Language-2

Chapter Three Vague Language in Business News in China Daily-4

3.1 Numbers as Approximations-4

3.1.1 Approximate Quantities with Round Numbers-4

3.1.2 Use a Precise Number with a Vague Meaning-4

3.1.3 Use a Plural Number Name to Approximate a Quantity-4

3.2 Non-numerical Vague Quantifiers as Approximations-5

3. 3 Determiners-6

3.4 Prepositions-6

3.5 Adverbs of Degree-6

3.6 Adjectives Having Different Degrees-7

3.7 Expressions of Time and Dates-7

3.8 Indefinite Pronouns-8

Chapter Four Pragmatic Functions of Vague Language-8

4.1 Making the Language More Cautious and Scientific-9

4.1.1 Lacking Specific Information-9

4.1.2 Displacement-9

4.1.3 Self-protection-9

4.2 Giving the Right Amount of Information According to the Context-10

4.3 Making Language More Persuasive and Impressive-10

4.4 Making Language More Concise and Efficient-11

Chapter Five Conclusion-11

References-13