Abstract:This paper discusses pragmatic functions of vague language in the English business correspondence based on the existing literature. It analyzes the classification and linguistic realization of vague language, and focuses on its pragmatic functions. It finds that the use of vague language is indeed of great pragmatic and practical values. It can increase the appropriateness of business language, make the writing more polite, enhance the persuasiveness, and ensure self- protection and crisis avoidance, and thus it can reinforce and effectively promote the success of business transactions and business activities.

Key words: English business correspondence; vague language; pragmatic function

CONTENTS

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review.1

3. Vague Language in English Business Correspondence3

3.1 Classification of Vague Language

3.2 Linguistic Realization of Vague Language

  3.2.1 Lexical Means

  3.2.2 Syntactic Means

4.Pragmatic Functions of Vague Language in English Business Correspondence.6

4.1 Increasing Appropriateness of Business Language

4.2 Making Writing More Polite

4.3 Enhancing Persuasiveness

4.4 Ensuring Self-Protection and Crisis Avoidance

5. Conclusion10

Bibliography.12

Acknowledgements13