Abstract

Business English, peculiar to the business culture, is a functional variant of modern English and emphasizes language skills and intercultural communication competence in business environment. The register in the Business English offers a social condition of business activities to writers of Business English Correspondence. When they choose and adjust the register suitably, it will be easier to reach the goal of business activities. As a result, it is necessary and meaningful to study the application of the Register Theory in Business English Correspondence. 

 This thesis focuses on the analysis of language characteristics of Business English Correspondence from the three social variables of Register Theory. In the register of Business English Correspondence, Business English has its unique field of discourse; in terms of tenor of discourse, Business English is strict and formal, which indicates a relationship of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit between the two dealing parties; in terms of mode of discourse, Business English Correspondence is mainly in written form. Through the study, it will be easily seen that businessmen can grasp more practical skills to interpret and write Business English Correspondence, create more opportunities and develop more successful international businesses. It will also show us a new way to enrich the Register Theory. In addition, it will help provide a useful reference for future researchers.

Key words: Business English Correspondence; language characteristics; Register 

Theory

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction1

2 Literature Review.2

  2.1 Related Theories.2

  2.1.1 Introduction of Register Theory3

  2.1.2 Widespread Application of Register Theory in Practice.4

  2.2 Previous Studies.6

  2.2.1 Studies Abroad6

  2.2.2 Studies at Home7

3 Language Characteristics of Business English Correspondence Based on Register Theory.8

  3.1 Language Characteristics of Business English Correspondence in Terms of Field of Discourse.8

  3.1.1 Lexicon.9

  3.1.2 Syntax10

  3.2 Language Characteristics of Business English Correspondence in Terms of Tenor of Discourse.12

  3.2.1 “You Attitude”13

  3.2.2 Modal Verb.13

  3.2.3 Polite Vocabulary 14

  3.3 Language Characteristics of Business English Correspondence in Terms of  Mode of Discourse 15

  3.3.1 Big Words.15

  3.3.2 Archaic Words16

4 Conclusion.16

  References.18