Abstract:This thesis studies the forms and pragmatic functions of euphemism in English political news. Previous studies on euphemism focus on the methods to generate it, its functions, interpretations and applications. However, the researches on English political news are inadequate. The current study argues that the forms of euphemism in English political news are mainly embodied in the levels of words, phrases and sentences and it has the pragmatic functions of covering the negative side of facts, avoiding sensitive topics and beautifying the events. The use of euphemism in English political news is mainly influenced by the ruler’s ways of governing a country, the comprehensive power of a country and people’s sense of liberty and equality. This thesis will help people interpret English political news and understand how English political euphemism helps the government handle ordinary people. 

Keywords:  English political news  euphemism  forms  pragmatic functions

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One  Introduction-1

1.1 Definition of Euphemism-1

1.2 Reasons for This Study-1

1.3 Structure of This Thesis-1

Chapter Two  Literature Review-2

2.1 Methods to Generate Euphemism-2

2.2 Functions of Euphemism-2

2.3 Interpretations on Euphemism-2

2.4 Applications of Euphemism-2

Chapter Three  Forms and Pragmatic Functions of Euphemism in English Political  News-.4

3.1 Forms of Euphemism in English Political News-4

3.1.1 Words-4

3.1.2 Phrases-5

3.1.3 Sentences-6

3.2 Pragmatic Functions of Euphemism in English Political News-7

3.2.1 Covering the Negative Side of Facts-7

3.2.2 Avoiding Sensitive Topics-8

3.2.3 Beautifying the Events-9

3.3 Factors Influencing the Use of Euphemism in English Political News-9

3.3.1 Ways of Governing a Country-10

3.3.2 Comprehensive Power of a Country-10

3.3.3 People’s Sense of Liberty and Equality-10

Chapter Four  Conclusion-11

4.1 Major Findings-11

4.2 Limitations-11

References-12