Abstract:Euphemism, which is a language phenomenon, acts as “lubricator” in people’s daily life. With the further deepening of social contact as well as intercultural communication, we needn’t to emphasize the irreplaceable function of euphemism any more. In recent years, an increasing number of scholars have been devoted to the study of the translation of euphemism, a typical case being the application of adaptation theory to the specific translation. The relevant results are not so satisfactory, compared with its current thriving and blossomy situation. Euphemism is a sort of expression of social culture in language, which reflects the universality and individuality of social development, representing distinctive social values, cultures, even the inner spirit of different nationalities. This thesis aims at translation of euphemisms from the perspective of adaptation theory. Firstly, previous studies on the translation of euphemisms will be introduced, and the purpose and structure of this thesis will be pointed out. The second part focuses on definitions of some concepts as well as functions of euphemisms. The third part gives a brief introduction of the adaptation theory which the study is based on. Fourthly, the examples extracted from the two English versions will be analyzed in the light of adaptation theory. Finally, a conclusion will be drawn of this study. 

Keywords: euphemism  Adaptation Theory  A Dream of Red Mansions

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 The Purpose of the Study-1

1.2 The Structure of the Paper-1

Chapter Two Literature Review-2

2.1Adaptation Theory of Verschueren-2

2.2 Previous Studies on Translation of Euphemisms-3

2.3 Enlightenment on the Compatibility between Translation and Adaptation-3

Chapter Three Introduction of Euphemism and Application of Adaptation Theory to the Translation of Euphemisms-5

3.1 The Definition of Euphemism-5

3.2 Functions of Euphemism-5

3.2.1 The Function of Politeness-5

3.2.2 The Function of Evasion-6

3.2.3 The Function of Ornament-6

3.3 Translation of Euphemisms from Contextual Correlates of Adaptability-6

3.3.1 Adaptation to the Linguistic Context-7

3.3.2 Adaptation to the Situational Context-7

3.3.3 Adaptation to the Cultural Context-8

3.3.4 Adaptation to Social Context-9

Chapter Four Conclusion-10

References-11