Abstract

Animals and human beings have a close relationship. There are many words about animals in human’s language. People often use animal words to convey special feelings, enriching the connotation of the language. English and Chinese animal words, under the influence of their own language culture and customs, have many differences on their connotation meaning. Understanding these differences is of great significance for promoting Chinese and western cultural exchange. This paper, through the analysis of examples, explores the cultural differences of animal words between English and Chinese, to help readers better understand and use English and Chinese animal words.

Keywords: animal words; geographical differences; aesthetic value; culture

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-１

2. Literature Review-２

3. Cultural Differences between Chinese and English-２

3.1 Historical Differences-２

3.2 Geographical Differences-３

3.3 Custom Differences-３

3.4 Aesthetic Value Differences-４

4. Same Animal Words-４

4.1 Historical Differences in “Dragon” and “龙”-４

4.2 Geographical Differences in “Beaver” and “海狸”-５

4.3 Custom Differences in “Dog” and “狗”-６

4.4 Aesthetic Value Differences in “Cat” and “猫”-７

5. Different Animal Words-８

5.1 Historical Differences in “Phenix” “Phoenix” and “凤凰”-８

5.2 Geographical Differences in “Bull” “Ox” and “牛”-９

5.3 Custom Differences in “Bat” “Vampire” and “蝙蝠”-９

5.4 Aesthetic Value Differences in “Lion” “Tiger” and “虎”-１０

6. Conclusion-１１

Works Cited-１３