The Characteristics and Pragmatic Strategies of English Euphemism

Abstract

Some words may cause embarrassment in daily communication, and euphemism is a language type to avoid embarrassment. Euphemism is widely used in English expression. On the basis of exploring the characteristics of English euphemism in times, regionalism, register, and nationality, this paper discusses in detail the pragmatic functions of English euphemism from four dimensions, namely taboo, politeness, positivity, and concealment, in order to provide guidance for the proper use of English euphemism.