| Euphemism has probably existed from the beginning of language. Its main function is to substitute taboo words to achieve a desirable communicative effect. As a common linguistic phenomenon in all languages, euphemisms have been used in all times and all countries. There is no doubt that language is the carrier of culture. Since different societies, different histories and cultures produce different euphemisms, euphemisms can reflect history, culture and customs of a nation from a unique angle. This thesis makes a comparative study of English and Chinese euphemisms from the aspects of motives for generating euphemisms, ways of euphemizing, developmental principles, relationship with religion, etc, and explores their similarities and differences and the characteristics of different nations euphemisms reflect. |
