A Comparative Study Of Euphemism And Taboo

In English, euphemism and taboo, as two linguistic phenomena, are studied respectively in quite a lot of academic works from the angle of lexicon or pragmatic analysis by a great number of scholars and researchers who have made outstanding contributions to the study of euphemistic expressions; however, these two phenomena are, indeed, vividly featured by the society and culture, therefore, a joint study of them will not only further the analysis of the psychological mechanism behind them, but also specify the cultural characteristics of each phenomenon. With similar or identical socio-psychological foundation and social functions, they share common grounds in existence, cultural nature, cultural functions and cultural value. On the basis of this consideration, this thesis makes a joint account of these two phenomena.This thesis comprises five parts. Part One introduces the general information of euphemism and taboo, including the definitions of euphemism and taboo. As to taboo, there is no generally accepted explanation, but there is broad agreement that the taboos current in any society tend to become prohibitions, excluding something from use, approach, or mention because of their sacred and inviolable nature, or bans or inhibitions resulting from social custom or emotional aversion. And euphemism is defined as a polite, careful or less explicit way used to avoid the direct naming of an unpleasant, painful, or frightening reality.Part Two introduces the theoretical foundation of euphemism and taboo in English. Firstly, it is the cooperative principle (CP). The Cooperative Principle was brought forward in the 1960s by P. Grice, an American linguistic philosopher, as a general principle that the speaker and the hearer are expected to observe in making a conversation for the sake of successful communicative goals. They are Quality Maxim, Quantity Maxim, Relevance Maxim, and Manner Maxim. Secondly, it is the Politeness Principle (PP). The Politeness Principle was proposed in 1980s by G. N. Leech, an English linguist, as a further development of the Face Theory and a supplement to the Cooperative Principle. They are Tact Maxim, Generosity Maxim, Approbation Maxim, Modesty Maxim, Agreement Maxim, and Sympathy Maxim.Part Three discusses the formation of euphemism and taboo. In the first place, the formation of taboo is discussed. Roughly speaking, there are four kinds of taboos: profanities, obscenities, vulgarities, and sensitive topics. Secondly, the three fundamental...