Abstract

After joining the WTO, China’s foreign trade have become increasingly frequent, the standard and scale have reached unprecedented levels. In order to improve the quality of negotiations, and taking cultural differences into consideration, negotiators need to employ a large quantity of euphemisms. Euphemism plays a very essential role in the international business communication, because it is helpful to the two or more parties to strengthen their mutual beliefs and understandings. Therefore, in the international business communication, including negotiation and correspondence, the application of  more appropriate and euphemistic language could make for creating a better negotiation environment for both sides. This paper describes the definition and importance of euphemisms in business communications, and emphasizes the functions of euphemism, then analyzes how to employ euphemisms in business communication while contrasting with some practical examples. Lastly, this paper puts forward how to use euphemisms in a more flexible and clever way in business communication in order to strengthen trade relations, expand business scope, increase commercial opportunities and broaden trade channels to maximize economic benefits.

Key words: euphemism; business English; international communication

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction.1

2. Euphemisms.2

2.1 The Definition of Euphemism.2

2.2 Formation of Euphemisms2

3.The Importance and Functions of Euphemisms in the Business English3  

3.1 The Reasons of Applying Euphemisms in the Business English.3

3.2 Functions of Euphemisms4

  3.2.1 Taboo.4 

  3.2.2 Politeness….5

  3.2.3 Concealing6 

  3.2.4 Positive and Praising.6

4. The Use of Euphemisms in the Business English..7 

4.1 Lexical Substitution Method7 

4.2 Passive Method.8

4.3 Subjunctive Mood Method.10

4.4 Saving Face Method11

4.5 Empathy Method12

5. Conclusion 13

References…14