EUPHEMISM IN JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Abstract

Euphemism is an interesting phenomenon in language; thay are formed in speaking activities, with cultural and socio-psychological elements. Euphemisms are words used to replace words that have negative, inelegant meanings, and can offend or humiliate the listener. Euphemisms enrich the units in the language system and diversify the ways of expressing words. This study describes, analyzes and explains the causes that form euphemisms in Japanese, and also points out ways to express the meaning of euphemisms in verbal or written communication situations.