Pragmatic Study Of English Euphemism

Euphemism is an important device to lubricate human relationship. Euphemism has probably existed from the beginning of language. Its main function is to substitute taboo words to achieve a desirable communication effect. As an indispensable and natural part of English language, English euphemism has been arousing wide interest. Many linguists and scholars have studied the linguistic phenomenon from different angles. Based on their achievements, the author will have an exploration of the principles and ways of using English euphemisms.English euphemism as a linguistic concept is also a cultural phenomenon. Therefore, it has close relationships with the western culture, and it truly reflects the life and values of English people through history. In this thesis, firstly the author tries to make a retrospect and prospect on euphemism study, establishing the main point of thepaper-analyzing the euphemism effect in inter-culture communicationfrom the angle of pragmatics. Secondly, the author attempts to give the definition, the classification, the law and the formation of English euphemism and clarify the relationship among euphemism, language and culture. By explaining the cultural motivation and communicative functions, the author further emphasizes that euphemism is an important part of culture.However, the thesis is not limited to the analysis of culture features of English euphemism, it goes on to explore the pragmatics of English euphemism in communication. The exploration will be mainly about principles and ways of using English euphemism. The Cooperative and the Politeness Principle are two basic guiding principles in communication. To some degree, to meet a certain need, people often flout some maxims of the Cooperative Principle in order to show politeness. Euphemism is just the case. Furthermore, euphemisms change constantly and their meanings are dominantly influenced by social and cultural factors. Therefore, for English learners, how to use English euphemism effectively is of great importance in inter-culture communication. Using English euphemism according to social context, getting acquainted with English culture and raising awareness of cultural differences can be the basis for successful communication.