Abstract: Euphemism is a common phenomenon in daily communication, especially in political and military affairs. This study takes Obama’s speech as an example aiming to find the functions of euphemism in political oration. Politeness principle is carried out to demonstrate the advantages caused by the application of euphemism. The results shows that to use euphemism in correct ways can help the speaker to achieve his goals. Besides, the application of euphemism can improve the efficiency of communication. And application of euphemism can avoid offence, beautify matters and make people easier to accept bad news; euphemism has the function of deception and irony as well.

Key words: euphemism; politeness principle; speech  

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction1

2. Euphemism.1

2.1 Definition of Euphemism.2

  2.2 Origin of Euphemism...2

3. General Review of Speech.3

  3.1 Definition of Speech3

3.2 Features of Speech...3

4. Pragmatic Analysis of Euphemism in Obama’s Speech4

  4.1 Theory of Politeness Principle.4

4.2 Pragmatic Functions of Euphemism in Obama’s Speech5

4.2.1 To Avoid Offence6

4.2.2 To Beautify Matters7

4.2.3 To Deceive..8

4.2.4 To Show Irony9

4.2.5 To Make People Easier to Accept Bad News10

5. Conclusion11

Bibliography12

Acknowledgement13