Contents

Abstract  in  Chinese .. Ⅰ

Abstract   in   English... Ⅱ

Ⅰ.Introduction 1

Ⅱ. Literature Review 3

2.1 Definition 3

2.2 Classification 4

2.2.1 The Positive Euphemism and Negative Euphemism 4

2.2.2 Conscious Euphemism and Unconscious Euphemism 5

2.3 Formation of Euphemism 6

2.3.1 Phonetic Approach 6

2.3.2 Lexical Approach 6

2.3.3 Rhetorical Approach 7

2.4 Function of Euphemism 7

2.4.1 The Function of Taboo 7

2.4.2 The Function of Avoiding Vulgar 8

2.4.3 The Function of Politeness 8

2.4.4 The Function of Covering up 8

2.5 Euphemism Study 9

2.5.1 Euphemism Study Abroad 9

2.5.2 Euphemism Study in China 10

Ⅲ. Methodology 11

3.1 Research Question 11

3.2 Data Resource 11

Ⅳ. Case study of Euphemism in The Desperate Housewives 12

4.1 The introduction of The Desperate Housewives 12

4.2 Frequent Use of Euphemism 12

4.3 The Application of English Euphemism 14

4.3.1 Phonetic Application of Euphemism 14

4.3.2 Lexical Application of Euphemism 15

4.3.3 Rhetorical Application of Euphemism 16

4.4 Pragmatic Functions of English Euphemism 18

4.4.1 The Function of Taboo 18

4.4.2 The Function of Politeness 19

4.4.3 The Function of Humor 20

Ⅴ.Conclusion 22

A Pragmatic Study of English Euphemism in The Desperate Housewives

Ⅰ.Introduction

When communicators start a conversation, it is very essential for the communicator to express his or her view properly in a specific  situation. And it is also important for the listener to understand the addresser’s euphemism. It is also used to avoid taboos and offensiveness. Taboos are those words that can’t be talked about directly and should be taken place by other good words or indirect words. In any countries and cultures, taboos existence, so in order to make conversation smooth and  to  be polite,  euphemisms  are important.