Abstract: To achieve communicative function, euphemism is an important way in daily communication, especially in public TV talk show. Communicators tend to adopt euphemism when the conversations involve sensitive topics. Under the guidance of adaptation theory, the present study analyzed the dialogues in the Oprah Winfrey Show from three perspectives: mental, social and physical worlds. The detailed analysis of euphemism in Oprah Winfrey Show can help us better understand the real intentions of interlocutors and appreciate the art of speaking. 

Key words: euphemism; Oprah Winfrey Show; adaptation theory; contextual adaptation

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

1.1 An Overview of Euphemism-1

1.2. Euphemism Study at Home and Abroad-3

1.3 The Significance of the Present Study-5

2. Theoretical Framework-6

2.1 An Overview of Adaptation Theory-6

2.2 Contextual Correlates of Adaptability-7

2.2.1 Linguistic Context-7

2.2.2 Communicative Context: Mental, Social and Physical Context-8

3. Analysis of Euphemism in Oprah Winfrey Show-9

3.1 Adaptation to the Mental World-9

3.1.1 Adaptation to Motivation-10

3.1.2 Adaptation to Emotion-12

3.1.3 Adaptation to Personality-12

3.2 Adaptation to the Social World-13

3.2.1 Adaptation to Social Status-14

3.2.2 Adaptation to Gender-15

3.2.3 Adaptation to Traditional Virtues-16

3.2.4 Adaptation to Religious Beliefs-17

3. 3 Adaptation to the Physical World-18

3.3.1Adaptation to Temporal Reference-18

3.3.2 Adaptation to Spatial Reference-19

3.4 Summary-20

4. Conclusion-20

Reference-23