A Comparison Between Words Addressing Relatives In Chinese And Vietnamese

Words addressing relatives are not only a language phenomenon but also a cultural and social one. In any language, words addressing relatives are important in communcation due to their rich connotations. Features and ways of addressing relatives have always been a mirror reflecting national identy. Different from other languages in the world, words addressing relatives in Chinese and Vietnamese are popular not only for family members but also for other people in the society.In modern Chinese and Vietnamese, words addressing relatives are rich and varied. Research on this area is significant both empirically and theoretically, especially when the systems of these words in the two language are compared and contrast.Confucianism in the Chinese culture made the words addressing relatives very complicated but precise, and the Vietnamese culture with great influence from Chinese people is no exception. The comparison and contrast between the two systems of words addressing relatives is of great significance for cultural research and for historical ties between the two countries. This study would help to understand not only the similarities between the two cultures but also distinctive features of each culture.Moreover, research on words addressing relatives is important in promoting research in the language area. Before making the comparison and contrast between the two systems, the researcher synthesises and analyses previous research, meanwhile investigates more comprehensively and sufficiently what have not been well researched. This would contribute to the area of Chinese-Vietnamese language research.The complex, varied systems of words addressing relatives in Chinese and Vietnamese have caused some problems in cultural exchange between the two countries, as well as challenges for teachers, learners, researchers, translaters and interpreters. The comparison and contrast of the two systems would contribute to bridging the gaps between the two cultures, making communication between the two countries better and easier.In this dessertation, based on previous research, first, we are looking into:the comparison and contrast of the systems of words addressing relatives in Chinese and Vietnamese; analysis of word formations; social and cultural factors affecting the similarities and differences of the two systems; applications of the comparison and contrast in teaching the Chinese language in Vietnam. It is hoped that the findings of this study would contribute to the teaching, learning, translation, interpretation, and research on language and culture of the two countries.