A comparative study of death-related euphemistic expressions in English used by native speakers and Punjabi L1 speakers
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Date
2011
Authors
Masood Ahmed
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Management and Technology
Abstract
Euphemism is a linguistic lubricant aiming at reducing communicative friction. Some
happenings are too sensitive to be expressed without linguistic safeguards i.e. euphemisms.
Death is, undoubtedly, one of such happenings which have been taboos since time
immemorial. This thesis attempts to make a comparative analysis of the use of death
euphemism in English by native English speakers and the Punjabi L1 speakers, well versed in
English language. The study also encompasses whether education plays a significant role in
the use of euphemistic expressions for death and dying. The hypothesis under investigation is
that ‘native English speakers use less euphemistic expressions for death in comparison with
Punjabi L1 speakers'. The research is quantitative in approach and descriptive in nature. The
population consists of native English speakers across the globe and Punjabi L1 speakers well
versed in English language. The sample comprises 34 respondents in each case. The
researcher has used random sampling technique. A questionnaire, containing 15 items, has
been used to gather data. The study explores that Punjabi L1 speakers, while communicating
in English language, are more prone to using euphemistic expressions for death than the
native English speakers.
Description
Keywords
Euphemistic Expressions