题目（英文）Euphemistic Expressions in English Language
题目（中文） 英语中的委婉表达
Euphemistic Expressions in English Language
Abstract
Euphemistic expression is not only a widely existing cultural phenomenon, but a linguistic phenomenon, which acts as the `lubricant' in daily communication. Its basic characteristics are indirectness and vagueness. Euphemistic expression is employed worldwide in various historical times with the main aim at coordinating interpersonal relationships. The study of euphemistic expression, though attracting close attention in the literature of linguistics, is mostly restricted to lexical level and is conducted from the perspective of classification, motivation, methods of formation and pragmatic effects, i.e. within the framework of rhetoric, traditional semantics, social psychology, culture and pragmatics. Synchronically, euphemistic expression is a process of expression conflicts and generation of novel forms and diachronically it is a vital means of linguistic change.
This thesis, Based on the existing research, this paper will start from the definition of euphemism, explore the classification of euphemism, and elaborate the function of euphemism, so as to further explore the relationship between language and thought.
Key words: euphemism; culture research
摘要
委婉表达（euphemistic expression）是一种普遍存在的文化现象，也是一种语言现象，是交际行为中的“润滑剂”，其基本特点是间接性和模糊性，是世界各国，各族人民在不同历史时期都采用的表达手段，主要目的是协调人际关系。委婉表达历来受到学界的密切关注，大多数研究主要限于词汇层次，从委婉表达的类型、动机、构成手段及语用效果等方面，即从文体修辞、传统语义学、社会心理、文化和语用等角度入手。从共时的角度看，委婉表达是一种语用现象，是一种表达发生冲突和新形式诞生的过程。从历时的角度，委婉表达是语言变化的一个重要方式。
本文拟在现有研究的基础上，从委婉语的定义出发，探究委婉语的分类，阐述委婉语的作用，以利于进一步探究语言与思维的关系问题。
关键词：委婉语；文化研究
Contents
Abstract 1
1. Introduction 2
2. Overview of Euphemism 3
2.1Definition of Euphemism 3
2.2Classification of Euphemism 4
2.2.1Unconscious euphemism and conscious Euphemism 4
2.2.2Other classifications of Euphemism 4
2.3Characteristics of Euphemism 5
2.3.1National character 5
2.3.2 Geographical 5
2.3.3Developmental 6
3. The functions of English euphemism 6
3.1 Being polite to others 6
3.2 Carrying effective communication 7
3.3 Saving others’ face 7
4. Conclusion 8
Reference 9
