摘 要

模糊限制语作为常用的一种模糊语言，是指那些附加在意义明确的表达形式之前的词或短语，可使本来意义明确的概念变得模糊。根据其语义特征及语用功能，模糊限制语可分为近似语和遮掩语；前者又可分为程度变动语和范围变动语，后者分为直接缓和语和间接缓和语。
本文以礼貌原则、面子理论为基础，结合商务英语函电的特点，探讨分析模糊限制语在函电中的语用价值。研究发现，正确、恰当地使用模糊限制语能使函电中的语言表达更礼貌、更客观，可增强商务运作的灵活性以及加强自我保护。本研究旨在指导模糊限制语在商务英语函电写作中的有效运用，从而实现高效的国际商务交际。

关键词：模糊限制语；语用功能；商务英语函电；礼貌原则；面子理论

Abstract

As one kind of vague language often used in English, hedges refer to the words and phrases that are lying before definitely meaningful language forms and can make the meaning of them fuzzier or less fuzzy. According to hedges' semantic feature and pragmatic function, they are divided into approximators and shields in which the former consists of adaptors and rounders, the latter plausibility shields and attribution shields.
Based on Politeness Principle and Face Theory, this thesis discusses and analyses the pragmatic value of hedges in English business letters combining with the characteristics of business letters. Results show that hedges used correctly and properly can not only make the linguistic expressions more polite and more objective but also strengthen flexibility of business operation and self-protection. The research aims to provide instructions of proper use of hedges in English business letters writing, thus realizing efficient international communication.
 
Key words: hedges; pragmatic functions; English business letters; Politeness Principle; Face Theory

1.    Introduction

It is commonly believed that language should be precise and a good use of language involves clarity and precision. Thus, vagueness, ambiguity, and imprecision are avoided whenever possible. However, more and more scholars think that this notion is misleading to learners especially to foreign language learners of English. In fact, vague words are often deliberately used to express clearly their purposes; too much precision can lead to time wasting and inflexibility instead. The competence to apply vague expressions in our daily communication has obvious significance.