Abstract

Nowadays, with the rapid development of globalized economy in the international society, there are more and more needs for the communication among different nations. Under the background of cross-cultural communication, more and more business activities are now conducted among different nations. As for China, more Chinese companies the tend to explore new markets. In the business activities or negotiations between Chinese and western companies, the business letter is also a very important form. In order to achieve business goals, it is also important and necessary to make full use of euphemistic expressions in writing business English letters. Therefore, it is of great value to study euphemistic expression and forms.

This paper is a brief study on euphemistic expressions in English business letters. It firstly gives an introduction to euphemism, including definition and function. In addition, the paper also discusses the principles of euphemism in writing business letters from different aspects. In this way, with various examples, readers can understand the analysis more easily. The study will also present some useful methods to the readers about better application of euphemism in writing English business letters.  

Key words:  business letter; euphemism ; politeness principle; functions

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction-1

2 A Brief Survey of Euphemistic Expressions-1

2.1 Definition of Euphemism-1

2.2 Euphemism and Politeness Principle-2

2.3 Functions of Euphemism-4

2.3.1 Avoidance Function-4

2.3.2 Politeness Function-4

2.3.3 Induce Function-5

2.3.4 Disguise Function-6

3 The Principles of Euphemism in Business English Letters-6

3.1 Strategic Guideline-6

3.2 Generous Guideline-7

3.3 Appreciation Guideline-8

3.4 Consistent Guideline-8

3.5 Sympathy Guideline-9

4 The Application of Euphemism in Business English Letters-10

4.1 Using Lexical Substitution-10

4.2 Using Passive Voices-11

4.3 Using Past Tenses-12

4.4 Using Subjunctive Mood-12

4.5 Interrogative Sentence-13

5 Conclusion-14

References.16