A Contrastive Study of Euphemism Between English and Chinese - Taking Rejection as an Example

Abstract

This paper investigates the nuances of euphemism language in refuse, comparing English and Chinese expressions. Politeness, a crucial aspect of communication, exhibits distinct cultural influences. The backdrop of communication underscores the pivotal role of politeness, particularly shaped by cultural disparities in English and Chinese. A thorough examination of these differences contributes to a comprehensive grasp of cultural variations in language expression. The study aims to discern commonalities and differences in the use of euphemism language, exploring frequency, expressions, and cultural implications. Adopting a comparative analysis approach, linguistic data related to requests is collected and analyzed. Findings reveal shared social strategies and illuminate the influential role of cultural backgrounds in shaping language expression during requests. English tends to be more direct, while Chinese prefers softer, more indirect approaches. Social relationships are crucial, with English culture maintaining looser ties and Chinese culture prioritizing face-saving and relationship preservation. Pragmatic strategies, including the use of mitigated language, are influenced by context and participant relationships. This comparative exploration not only deepens our understanding of cultural differences between English and Chinese but also provides valuable insights for linguistics and cross-cultural communication research, enhancing our appreciation for the intricate interplay between language and culture.