Abstract: This study aims to investigate the difference of courtesy language between Chinese and English context. According to the research of politeness principle both in English and Chinese, courtesy language becomes the best way to prove the importance of language between different countries. Based on the politeness principle, this paper reveals the relevant contents of courtesy language and comes up with differences of courtesy language in English and Chinese. Use is made of literature review to reflect that politeness principle is linked with courtesy language and interacted with each other. In addition, reasons resulting in different courtesy language are listed and analyzed in order to know more about differences of culture. Courtesy language becomes more correct and clearer for people to understand through comparison and analysis and therefore contributes to cross-culture communication. 

Key words: courtesy language; cultural difference; politeness principle; communication

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

2.Literature Review...1

2.1Courtesy Language

2.1.1 Definition of Courtesy Language

2.1.2 Current Situation of Courtesy Language

2.2 Politeness Principle

2.2.1 Definition of Politeness Principle

2.2.2 Politeness Principle in English Culture

2.2.3 Politeness Principle in Chinese Culture

3.Differences of Courtesy Language in English and Chinese....4

3.1 In Salutation 

3.2 In Thanks and Apologies 

3.3 In Greetings and Farewells 

3.4 In Private Taboo 

   3.4.1 Private Taboo in English 

   3.4.2 Private Taboo in Chinese 

4.Reasons Resulting in Differences of Courtesy Language9

4.1 Cultural Value

4.2 Code of Conduct

4.3 Customs and Way of Thinking

5.  Conclusion10

Bibliography11

Acknowledgements.12