Abstract

With the rapid development of economic globalization, English as a common language in international communication, has played a very important role. With the popularity of English language, how to use English euphemism correctly and skillfully becomes urgent. Whether in daily conversations or in international conferences, appropriate use of English euphemism often will bring unexpected gains. Through access to relevant information, film and network, the paper analyzes pragmatic function of euphemism, with a purpose to make English learners have a better understanding and pay more attention to the application of English Euphemism. Because of different cultural values, people often have different opinions and cultural biases. In this paper, the analysis of English euphemism helps people know more about western culture, deepen mutual understanding, resolve misunderstanding and build more harmonious interpersonal relationship. 

   Key Words: English euphemism; economic globalization; international language; western culture

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction-1

1.1The Background of the Paper-1

1.2 The Purpose of the Paper-1

1.3 The Significance of the Paper-2

2. Some Fundamental Knowledge about English Euphemism-2

2.1 The Definitions of English Euphemism-2

2.2 The Origin of English Euphemism-3

2.3 The Classifications of English Euphemism-4

2.4 The Pragmatic Principles-4

2.4.1 The Cooperative Principle-4

2.4.2 The Politeness Principle-5

2.4.3 The Face Theory-6

3. The Pragmatic Functions of English Euphemism-6

3.1 The Function of Avoiding Taboo-7

3.1.1 the Name of God-7

3.1.2 the Death and Disease-7

3.1.3 the Numbers-8

3.2 The Function of Avoiding Vulgarity-9

3.2.1 the Pregnancy-9

3.2.2 the Sex-10

3.2.3 the Excretion-10

3.2.4 the Menstruation-10

3.2.5 Some Body Parts-10

3.3 The Function of Being Polite-11

3.3.1 the Physical Appearance-12

3.3.2 the Intelligence and School Performance-13

3.3.3 the Old Age and Senility-13

3.3.4 Some Professions-14

3.4 The Function of Disguising-14

3.4.1 the Poverty-14

3.4.2 the Scandal and Drug-15

3.5 The Function of Being Humorous and Ironic-15

3.5.1 the Disaster-15

3.5.2 the Imprisonment-16

4. Conclusion-16

4.1 Major Findings-16

4.2 Limitations and Suggestions for Further Studies-17

References-18