Communicative Function of Euphemism - A Case Study of President Obama’s Remarks on the War against Iraq
Abstract
Euphemism is a common and universal linguistic phenomenon in the process of human’s language use. Euphemism is a kind of important means to construct and regulate interpersonal relationship. Along with the progress of the society and the development of human civilization, euphemism has always been in the whole social speech communication process, and fully displayed its communicative functions. Generally, euphemism has a great effect on daily communication. It oils the human relationship and contributes to saving face of communicators. Euphemism has four communicative functions: avoidance of taboo, politeness, disguise and persuasion.
Based on President Obama’s remarks on Iraq, this paper analyzes the application of these functions in detail. Besides, this paper links with people’s daily life to make people understand the communicative functions of euphemism better and they will have a larger knowledge of English language to avoid unnecessary conflicts and embarrassment.
Key Words: euphemism, communicative functions, Obama’s remark
Contents
1. Introduction1
1.1 Definition and origin of euphemism1
1.2 The communicative functions of euphemism2
2. Demonstration-3
2.1 Avoidance of taboo3
2.1.1 Introduction3
2.1.2 Analysis of Obama’s speech-3
2.1.2.1 Avoidance of death3
2.1.2.2 Avoidance of tragedy-4
2.1.2.3 Avoidance of controversy5
2.2 Function of disguise-5
2.2.1 Introduction5
2.2.2 Analysis of Obama’s speech-6
2.2.2.1 Beautification of invasions-6
2.2.2.2 Reduction of audiences’ discomfort6
2.3 Function of politeness-7
2.3.1 Introduction7
2.3.2 Analysis of Obama’s speech-8
2.3.2.1 To show respect-8
2.3.2.2 To win support-8
2.4 Function of persuasion9
2.4.1 Introduction9
2.4.2 Analysis of Obama’s speech-10
2.4.2.1 Persuasion of people’s involvement10
2.4.2.2 Persuasion of people’s voice-11
3. Conclusion11
Works Cited-13
Bibliography-14