汉英委婉语的跨文化透视

A Cross-cultural Perspective on English and Chinese Euphemism

汉英语言中存在着大量的委婉语。由于各民族所处的自然环境、社会环境不同,以及生活方式、价值观念不同,汉英委婉语也存在着很大的差异。本文从文化价值体系、礼貌心理、等级尊卑观念和宗教的视角,通过语言实例,对汉英委婉语进行了跨语言对比和探析。了解委婉语产生的文化因素有助于在跨文化交流中真正了解西方文化,从而促进东西方文化的交流。

Examples of euphemism are abundant in both English and Chinese. Due to differences in natural environment, social surroundings, ways of life and value system, Chinese and English euphemism differs a lot. This article, with the help of examples, makes a cross-cultural analysis of Chinese and English euphemism from the perspectives of value system, politeness principle, hierarchical system and religion. Understanding these cul- tural factors behind euphemism is very helpful in conducting cross-cultural communication and promoting the cultural exchange between east and west.