American International Journal of Social Science

A Pragmatic Analysis of English Euphemisms in Downton Abbey
Mengjie Li, Shuo Cao

Abstract
Euphemism is a universal linguistic phenomenon and is commonly used in daily communication. This paper attempts to probe into the relationship of English euphemisms with Cooperative Principle and Politeness Principle, as well as the British culture in Downton Abbey reflected by the employment of euphemisms. Through the conversational analysis of English euphemisms in Downton Abbey, the thesis discovers how and why people employ English euphemisms in daily communication and goes further to explore the British cultures reflected by the employment of euphemisms in Downton Abbey. People achieve the euphemistic effects by violating the Cooperative Principle on purpose and at the same time complying with the Politeness Principle. In addition, English euphemisms in Downton Abbey violate the Cooperative Principle for concealment and observe the Politeness Principle for modesty and respect. The employment of euphemisms mainly reflects the aristocratic spirit, the social hierarchy and the gentleman culture in Downton Abbey.

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