Abstract

This dissertation is based on the studies of color words in Chinese and English. The usage of colors in life is very abundant. Various colors contains various symbolic meanings. But, in English, some symbolic meanings of color words have a big difference with them in Chinese. This situation stems from cultural differences between east and west. There are lots of works and literature about the comparison of cultural connotation of color words at home and abroad. However, with the changes of the times, new meanings are constantly given to color words. Since reform and opening up to the outside world has been carried out, international communication has become more and more frequent. English is the official language in the world and color words is one of the most frequently used vocabulary category in communication in daily life.

Keywords : color; symbolic meanings; culture; Chinese; English

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Different Meanings of Colors in Chinese and English1

2.1 Meanings of colors in Chinese.2

2.2 Meanings of colors in English3

3. The Significant Meanings of Colors in Historic Flags in China and English Speaking Countries.5

3.1 The significant meanings of colors in historic flags in China5

3.2 The significant meanings of colors in historic flags in English speaking countries8

4.Comparison Between Chinese and English Color Words From Four Aspects9

4.1 The usage of colors in religion between Chinese and English.9

4.2 The usage of colors in symbolism in Chinese and English10

4.3 The usage of idioms about colors in Chinese and English.11

4.4 The usage of colors in myths and legends between Chinese and English11

5.Conclusion12

References14