Abstract:There are many things in our daily life, they have various cultural connotations, and those different kinds of connotations make our lives colorful. Animals are one of them, they associated with mankind, and affect the survival and development of human. Language is a significant way for people to express emotions. Due to the social development, traditional culture, living custom, religion between China and the Western, their emotions contained are different. In nowadays, the relation between China and the West is closer, and the collision and exchange of culture has become a trend. So the analysis of the difference between Chinese and Western culture from animal words will help us to know more Western culture and reduce conflict and promote communication.

Key words: animal words; China and the West; conflict

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Introduction-1

I. Connotation of Animal Words-3

A.-Connotation of Animal words-3

B.-Status of Connotations of Animal Words-4

II. Difference of Connotations of Animal Words in Chinese and Western Culture-6

A.-“Dog” in Chinese and Western Culture-6

B.-“Owl” in Chinese and Western Culture-7

C.-“Dragon” in Chinese and Western Culture-8

Ⅲ. Reasons of Cultural Difference in Connotations of Animal Words-10

A.-Regional Reason-10

B.-Religious Reason-11

C.-Reasons of Customs and Habits-12

Conclusion-14

Bibliography-15

Acknowledgements-16