Euphemistic Expressions: A Challenge to L2 Learners
Meher.ul.nissa Zaid1, Fatima Batool1, Asia Khan1, Sumara Hina Mangla1
Citation : Meher.ul.nissa Zaid,Fatima Batool,Asia Khan,Sumara Hina Mangla, Euphemistic Expressions: A Challenge to L2 Learners International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature 2018, 6(5) : 9-18
Although euphemism, being an effective communication device, gives the native speakers the opportunity to sound polite in the most impolite situations, their presence often generates confusion among the non-native speakers for whom the language has more to do with conveying the exact meaning than implying something beyond the obvious. The present study sets out to investigate whether euphemism asserts the intended meanings to L2 learners and to what extent they remain able to comprehend the meaning of a euphemistic expression. A sample of a hundred students at Bachelor level is chosen to investigate the underlying research questions. The data, on the understanding of euphemistic expressions regarding death, anger, urination, pregnancy and getting fired from job, is gathered through multiple methods, including observation, questionnaire and a group discussion. The study is also backed by empirical findings and factual details. The calculation of the frequencies of the correct answers to different euphemistic expressions reveals that the selected English euphemistic expressions are subject to complexity and vagueness for L2 learners. Even most of the correct answers were mere guesswork. The qualitative analysis of data reveals some very significant reasons working behind the vagueness of such expressions including educational background and medium of education. The elements of complexity and misunderstanding can be characterized by the intransparent nature of the words and to some extent interference of L1. The study speculates that the ever increasing proliferation of euphemisms by teachers as well as by classroom material affects student's learning and understanding of language when used in daily lives.