Abstract

Euphemism is a substitution of mild, vague, roundabout and pleasant expressions for harsh, unpleasant or blunt expressions in writing or speech. It was produced in people’s daily life and is widely used in the western world in the field of social life, politics, economy, military and education etc. Not only is it necessary in communication but it is also a very important means in maintaining people’s social and interpersonal relationship .It can reflect the level of civilization in a society as well as people’s values. This paper is intended to probe into the two most important characteristics and functions of euphemism: to avoid taboos and to make the speech more polite and elegant, thus helping us to have a better understanding of euphemism, facilitate our daily communication and promote intercultural communication.

Keywords: euphemism; taboos; elegance; communication

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

2. The Origin, Classification and Development of English 

Euphemism.2

2.1 The Origin and development of English Euphemism .2

2.1.1 The Influence of Religion on the Development of Euphemism .2

2.1.2 The Influence of Traditional Moral Concept on the Development of

Euphemism.3

2.1.3 The Influence of Social Values on the Development of Euphemism

3

2.2 Different Types of English Euphemism.3

2.2.1 Euphemism Closely Related to Taboo4

2.2.2 Euphemism Associated with Courtesy4

2.2.3 Euphemism Relevant to Politics.4

2.2.4 Euphemism Connected to Career5

2.2.5 Euphemism Related to Education.5

3. Two Distinct Characteristics in English Euphemism5

3.1 To Avoid Taboos.6

3.1.1 About Religious and Divine Things or Names6

3.1.2 About Taboo Things or Concepts6

3.1.3 About Unclean and Inelegance Things or Names7

3.1.4 About Obscene Things or Names.7

3.2 To Make the Language Elegant.7

4. Conclusion9

References10