Analysis of Chinese Euphemism

Euphemism exists in all languages and cultures, Chinese is no exception. This article aims at analyzing Chinese euphemism both from its classification and its pragmatic function. Analysis shows that Chinese euphemism could be roughly classified into the following classes: euphemism avoiding taboo words; euphemism avoiding vulgarity; euphemism reducing or concealing disadvantages and euphemism showing one's respect. Most of the Chinese euphemisms function at the expense of any maxim or maxims of the CP principle, while almost all of the euphemisms work in conformity with the PP principle.

Euphemism exists in all languages and cultures,Chinese is no exception.This article aims at analyzing Chinese euphemism both from its classification and its pragmatic function.Analysis shows that Cbinese euphemism could be roughly classified into the following classes:euphemism avoiding taboo words; euphemism avoiding vulgarity; euphemism reducing or concealing disadvantages and euphemism showing one's respect.Most of the Chinese euphemisms function at the expense of any maxim or maxims of the CP principle,while almost all of the euphemisms work in conformity with the PP principle.