《浙江教育科学》杂志官网征稿谈商务英语邮件中模糊语言的功能
商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能
商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能【摘要】英语模糊语在商务英语的应用中使用频率较高，又因其所出现的语境不同而略有差异，文章主要就英语模糊语的语用功能展开系统分析，进而使其灵活的运用到实际的商务英语教学课堂中去。
【关键词】商务英语;英语模糊语;语用功能0.引言语言学的传统的基本标准要求语言表达必须清楚、正确。
但在实际应用中模糊语言逐渐走进人们的视野，成为了一种不可或缺的语言表达方式，直到1965年美国学者提出了著名的模糊理论，并提出了新型的科学思想方法，模糊语言学从此奠定了基础，在学术界也越来越被更多的人认可。
而且在商务英语的实际应用中得到广泛使用，我们研究英语模糊语言在商务英语中的语用功能，能够使更多的人了解模糊语言其积极的作用，并使其得到更普遍的运用。
1.模糊语言的概述有关模糊语言世界各地存在着不同的理论，但各种理论各种说法中的一个共同关键词就是“不确定性“，也就是说在语言的表述过程中中心明确，但是词语所涉及的范围边界却无法确定人类的意识受客观存在之约，因为可以判断出人类对于客观存在的模糊认识在一定程度上也决定着人类大脑思维的模糊性，进而导致了人类语言的模糊性。
这让我们可以判断出：语言的模糊属性是由于人类对于客观存在的模糊认识所导致的。
在实际的语言应用中，这种表达方式能够更加契合表达着所要表的的信息，从而推动了语言的交流。
虽然关于模糊语言的概述各国学者众说纷纭，但是其在语言学中的重要地位是大家所公认的。
一般说来模糊语言的使用在生活着中也是普遍存在的，而且人们有时会有目的的使用模糊语言，使谈话来达到其所预期的效果。
这种表述在商务英语中反应的尤为明显，有时为了留有余地，避免使看法、报价、或市场行情等表露无疑，或者对相关范围界定不必十分精确，就经常会用到模糊语言来使表述更加客观实际。
2.模糊语言在商务英语中的语用功能及应用为了传递信息，交流事物或请求回复，在商务英语中，商务信函成为了一种必要的交流方式。
而在商务信函的写作过程中适当的运用语言技巧，使模糊语言的使用恰到好处，往往能为商务往来带来很大的便利；反之则会造成不好的量的影响。
商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能探讨
商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能探讨在商务英语信函的写作中，经常会使用一些模糊语言，这些语言在实际操作中具有一定的语用功能。
本文将从语用学的角度，探讨商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能。
首先，模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能之一是婉转委婉地表达意见或拒绝。
在商务交流中，有时可能需要拒绝某个请求或提议，使用模糊语言可以缓解这种拒绝的冲击。
例如，可以使用诸如"I'm afraid I won't be able to..."或"I regret to inform you that..."这样的表达方式来委婉地拒绝或陈述自己的无法满足对方要求的情况。
这样做不仅能够保持双方的面子，还可以维护双方的商业关系。
其次，模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能之二是增加灵活性和可调整性。
在商务交流中，不同的情况和变数可能会导致计划或安排发生变化。
使用模糊语言可以留出余地，使双方在需要调整计划时更加灵活。
例如，可以使用表达如"可能"或"有可能"的词语来表明某事是可能的，但也存在变数。
这样的表达方式可以避免死板的承诺，同时为后续的协商创造了更多的机会。
第三，模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能之三是消除不确定性。
在商务交流中，有时需要表达出一定的不确定性，以避免对方过于依赖或过分期望。
例如，可以使用表达如"可能"或"或许"的词语来表达对某个事情的不确定性。
这样的表达方式可以让双方都认识到情况不确定，从而做出合适的准备和安排。
最后，模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能之四是减少冲突和争议。
在商务交流中，有时可能会涉及到一些敏感的话题或情况，使用模糊语言可以减少直接表达带来的冲突和争议。
例如，可以使用表达如"有人说"或"一些人认为"的词语来引用别人的观点，从而将责任和争议性降到最低。
商务英语写作中模糊语言作用论文
商务英语写作中模糊语言的作用【摘要】在商务英语中，清楚固然重要，然而，模糊也不能少。
在写作者不能讲清楚，不愿讲清楚或没必要讲清楚等场合下，就不会遵循具体清楚原则，其表达就比较模糊了。
本文将讨论模糊语言在商务英语写作中的消极作用和积极作用，进而说明模糊语言把握的“度”的问题。
【关键词】模糊语言商务英语作用模糊与精确都是人类语言的基本属性。
模糊与精确对立于同一语言中，光有精确没有模糊的语言与光有模糊没有精确的语言同样是不可想象的。
模糊语言在交际中大量存在，语言使用者并不觉得使用模糊语言有什么特别的困难，人类的认知能力可以对付模糊概念。
长期以来，“明白”与“精确”是我们讲话或写作所追求的标准。
商务英语信函写作也不例外。
作为国际商贸活动中常用的一种具有独特特点的文体，商务英语信函于其他文体相比，它在遣词造句、谋篇布局上都有自己的特点。
许多学者都提出了商务信函的写作原则（writing principles）。
其中的具体原则（concreteness）就是说信要写得生动（vivid）、具体（specific）和明白（definite）；清晰原则（clearness）就是说信要写得清清楚楚、明明白白，不会引起误会，毫无晦涩难懂之处（free from doubt or difficulty），收信人看了信后不会误解写信人所要表达的意思。
从这几条写作原则中我们似乎可以看出，模糊表达被排除在商务英语写作之外，商务英语写作不需要模糊语言。
其实不然。
在商务英语中，清楚固然重要，然而，模糊也不能少，在写作者不能讲清楚，不愿讲清楚或没必要讲清楚等场合下，就不会遵循具体清楚原则，其表达就比较模糊了。
本文将讨论模糊语言在商务英语写作中的消极作用和积极作用。
一、模糊语言在商务英语写作中的作用（一）消极作用商务英语写作原则中的清楚原则要求写作者将内容清晰的表达出来，以便读者准确理解，因为商贸函电是关于双方商业贸易的凭证性文件，它关系到双方的切身利益，小处亦不可马虎，故此，用词准确，表达清晰是至关重要的。
商务谈判中模糊语言的语用功能
通常在商务谈判中语言要准确简介，但有时为了达到某种语用目的可以使模糊语言客观存在于商务语言中。
具体来说有以下几个方面：( 一) 营造和谐、友好的谈判氛围商务谈判是一个借助各种方式、措施、技巧、手段等，最终是对方接受自己的观点的过程。
在谈判过程中难免争锋相对产生一些分歧或矛盾，特别是涉及双方利益等敏感性话题时，模糊语言就发挥了很大的作用，既能委婉、含蓄、巧妙地掩饰自己的意图，为对方理解话语留有余地、增加接受度，又能避免谈判双方直接对抗，伤害双方的面子和感情。
如，“I agree with you. But there might be some difficulty in operation．”中前半部分采用肯定的表述为对方营造出认同的氛围，后半部分采用意义不十分明确的词语委婉表达出“观点不认可”的真实意图，借助模糊语言的灵活性特点为谈判双方都留下一个缓冲的余地，有效地协调和维系了双方的合作关系。
( 二) 创造主动的谈判条件当谈判进行到没法满足对方提出的条件时，可以使用模糊语言不做明确表态，从而争取时间，掌握主动权。
如，“A: That’s very true． We thank you very much indeed for this talk，Mr． Smith． You have given us a lot to think about． I shall need a lot of time and careful assessment before making a decision of this importance.”( 三) 有利于减轻承担责任的程度虽然，谈判本身要求谈判人员的话语应客观、准确，并努力向对方传达真实的信息。
然而在实际情况下，谈判时的气氛瞬息万变，尤其是当谈判员掌握的信息不全面、对某个事物或某件事情的观点不确定、不能保证自己所提供信息的确切性和可靠性时，谈判人员出于自我保护的意识往往会使用模糊语言，以掩盖自己话语的不确定性。
商务英语中模糊语言的语用分析
商务英语中模糊语言的语用分析【摘要】作为语言的核心属性，模糊性显得意义十足，在商务英语中，模糊语言的作用和意义非常大。
关于模糊语言的研究与运用非常普及，本篇文章笔者首先对商务英语中模糊语言应用现状进行了系统研究；其次对商务英语中模糊语言的特征和功能进行了详细阐述。
通过文章系统、全面的陈述，为我们对模糊语言的理解和掌握奠定了基础。
【关键词】商务英语模糊语言研究与运用在商务活动中，语言作为其基础工具，主要通过语言来进行事物的阐述。
商务活动的范围很广，英语作为最为常见的一类，通常在汇报总结、书信函件、合同协议等中运用较为广泛。
英语表达过程中，为了实现语句通顺、表意清晰、意思明确，有必要融入模糊语言。
商务英语中语言的模糊性显得至关重要，一方面涉及在英语口语中；另一方面被广泛运用于书面材料中。
本篇文章主要对商务英语中模糊语言特征、作用、功能和运用现状进行了深入的分析和系统的研究。
一、商务英语中模糊语言运用现状研究1.运用于商务洽谈活动中。
通常情况下，在商务洽谈活动中，人们必须事先进行语言的提炼，以此来提升洽谈的效果，满足洽谈的需求。
随着全球一体化步伐的不断加快，国际洽谈活动逐渐开展起来，国与国之间的洽谈必须采取同一种语言，方能达到洽谈的效果。
英语作为世界第一大语言，其覆盖面非常广，多数国家在开展国际洽谈活动的过程中，均将英语作为其洽谈语言。
因此，商务英语变显得十分重要，其语义必须得凝练、清楚，只有这样才能促成洽谈，防止不必要的误读、误解。
商务英语中的模糊语言作用和意义十分重大，在洽谈过程中，由于国家隐私的需要，有些语言必须体现出一定的模糊性，这就使得模糊语言成为洽谈活动中必不可少的一部分。
模糊语言的有效运用，不但能够提升语言的表达效果，满足洽谈工作的需求，有助于洽谈活动的有序进行。
下面将通过两个商务英语语句来展示模糊语言的应用情况：（1）As you may notice，the price for silk has gone up since last July.Our price is attractive，as compared with the silk you can get from others.“As you may notice”与As you probably know的含义基本相同，体现出模糊语言婉转的一面。
商务英语信函中的模糊语言研究
商务英语信函中的模糊语言研究在商务英语信函中，模糊语言扮演着重要的角色。
这种语言现象在各种商务情境，如贸易谈判、合同签订和纠纷解决等场合中频繁出现。
本文将探讨商务英语信函中模糊语言的特点、功能和研究现状。
灵活性：模糊语言可以表达多种含义，根据语境的不同，接收者可以从多个角度理解信息。
委婉性：在某些情况下，模糊语言可以避免直接表达可能带来的尴尬或冲突，为沟通双方留下余地。
策略性：在特定情境下，模糊语言可以作为一种策略手段，达到一定的交际目的。
在商务英语信函中，模糊语言的功能主要体现在以下几个方面：建立良好关系：在商务沟通中，模糊语言常被用来表达礼貌和尊重，从而有助于建立和保持良好的商务关系。
规避风险：在某些涉及敏感或不确定性较大的话题时，模糊语言可以避免过于明确可能带来的风险和误解。
提高效率：在一些情况下，模糊语言可以节省沟通时间，提高沟通效率。
近年来，随着跨文化商务沟通的增多，商务英语信函中的模糊语言现象引起了越来越多研究者的。
研究者们从不同角度对模糊语言进行了深入探讨，主要包括以下几个方面：语境与模糊语言：研究者们研究了语境对模糊语言理解和使用的影响，以及如何根据不同的语境选择合适的模糊语言。
文化与模糊语言：有研究表明，不同文化背景的商务人员在模糊语言的运用上存在差异。
因此，跨文化角度的模糊语言研究逐渐成为热点。
模糊语言的语用策略：一些研究者从语用策略角度出发，探讨了商务英语信函中如何运用模糊语言达到有效沟通、规避风险等目的。
模糊语言的翻译与解读：由于不同语言之间的差异，模糊语言的翻译和解读一直是研究的难点。
研究者们对如何准确翻译和解读商务英语信函中的模糊语言进行了深入研究。
商务英语信函中的模糊语言研究具有重要意义。
通过对模糊语言的深入了解和研究，可以帮助商务人员更好地掌握跨文化商务沟通的技巧，提高商务英语应用能力，从而在日益全球化的商业环境中取得更好的业务成果。
在商业交流中，精确、明确的沟通方式一直是主流。
商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能
科技 强向导
◇本刊特稿◇
商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能
常 亮
ｆ 丹 江 师 范 学 院 商务 英 语 系 黑 龙 江 牡
牡 丹江
１７ １ ） ５ ０ ２
【 要】 摘 英语模糊语在 商务 英语 的应 用中使 用频 率较 高． 因其所 出现的语境不 同而略有差异 ， 又 文章主要就英语模糊语的语用功能展 开 系统分析 ， 进而使其 灵活的运 用到 实际的商务英语教学课 堂 中去 。
模 糊 的 表 达方 式 让 卖 方 掌 握 主 动 性 ， 自己 留有 回旋 的 空 间 。 给 在商务交 际活动 中． 当对某些问题 的答复超越 了 自己的权限范围
是． 或者你 自己认为 时机尚未成熟时 ． 使用模糊语 言来应对可以使 自 己处于主动地位 ． 面对 问题方 可做到进退 自 ， 如 因为它可以使 自己处 １模糊 语 言 的 概 述 ． 于优 势地位 。 例如 ：Ｉ＇ ａ ｔｅｄｓｏａ ｆｈ ｏｒ． ｅｌ ｙ ｏ １ ｒｐｙｓ ｔｓ ｔ ｈ ｉ ｓｌ ｅｂａｄ ｗ ＇ ｅｙｕ０１ ｅｌａ ｐ ｏｔ ｌ １ ＂ 有关模糊语言世界各地存在着不同的理论 ， 各种理论各种说 法 但 中的一个共 同关键 词就是 “ 不确定性“ 也就是 说在语 言的表述过程 中 ｓ ｏ ｓｐ ｓｉ ｌ ． ． ｏ ｎ ａ ｏ ｓｂ ｅ 表 面上 许 诺 “ 早 答 复 ”实 际 上 只 不 过 是 缓 兵 之 计 ． 级 究竟 要 尽 ． 上 中心明确 ， 但是词语所涉及 的范围边界却无法 确定 人类 的意识受客 观 最终要怎么处理 ， 就可 以视需要灵活掌握 了。 存在之约 ， 因为可以判断 出人类对于客观存在 的模糊认识在一定程度 如何处理 ， ２３同时在 商务交易 中． ． 使用模糊语言还能够达到促进 合作 ． 同时 上也决定着人类 大脑思维的模糊性 ．进 而导致 了人类语 言的模糊性 这让我们可 以判断出： 语言的模糊属性是 由于人类对 于客观存在 的模 使双方 的商业 机密不会外流 这点就 体现了模糊语言 的自我保护功 该功能在商务信 函的写作中起到了不可小视 的作用 。商务合作 的 糊认识所导致的。在实际的语言应 用中。 这种表达方式能够更加契合 能 ， 所以模糊语 言的使用有效地避免 了直 表达着所要表的的信息 ， 从而推动了语言 的交流 。虽然关于模糊语 言 终极 目标是促进合作达到共赢 ． 达到促进合作的效果。 在商务信 函中， 由于事情发展的 的概述各国学者众说纷纭 ． 是其在语言学 中的重要地位是大家所公 接冲突的产生 ， 但 随时存在着 变更或其他不为人意 志所转 移的现象 。 在进行 认 的。－￥ ｉ ￣ 模糊语言的使用在生活着 中也是普遍存在的 ． － ｔ ￣ Ｅ 而且人 不可预知 ． 通常发信人不能按 客户要求给 出准确的答复 。这时信 函 们有时会有 目的的使用模糊语言 ． 使谈话来达到其所预期的效果 。这 书面沟通 时． 伤 种表述在商务英 语 中反应 的尤为 明显 ． 时为了留有余地 ． 有 避免使 看 的作 者最好使用模糊语 以免 回答错误而影响公 司利益 ． 害公司形 或者免 于涉及 诉讼。在此之外 ， 如果客户要求 自己承担某种责任 ， 法、 报价 、 或市场行情等 表露无疑 ， 或者对相关 范嗣界定不必 十分精 象， 或 自己提供 的信息会给其他 客户 造成某种程度上 的负 面影 响甚至产 确 ， 经常会用到模糊语 言来使表述更加客观实际 。 就 生直接 的经济损失 ． 这时候模糊语言的使用就成为了一种很好的 自我 ２模糊 语 言 在 商务 英 语 中的 语 用功 能及 应 用 言 ． 语言学的传统 的基本标准要求语 言表达必须清楚 、 正确 。但在实 际应用 中模糊语言逐渐走进人们的视野 ． 成为 了一种不可或缺 的语言 表达方式 ， 直到 １６ ９ ５年美 国学者提出了著名 的模糊理论 ． 并提 出了新 型的科学思想方法 ． 模糊语 言学从此奠定 了基础 ． 学术界 也越来越 在 被更多的人认可 。而且在商务英语 的实际应用 中得到广泛使用 ， 我们 研究英语模糊语言在商务英语 中的语用功能 ， 能够使更多的人了解模 糊语言其积极的作用 ， 并使其得到更普遍的运用。 们在履行定货合约方 面有些 困难， 而且稍微迟误也不可避免。 在例子 中：稍 微” “ 是模糊限制语 ． 没有 具体指出要延误多长 时 并 间。这样说或许是 由于卖方还不能确定确切发货 时间 ． 因为有 时候意 外事件是不能避免 的， 说得太过具体明了反 而给操作带来不便 。这种
商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能分析
商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能分析商务英语信函的目的是建立和维持商业联系、促进贸易合作与保持良好商务关系，其表达效果的好坏直接关系到企业或公司的经济效益。
模糊限制语广泛应用于各种商务英语信函中，而模糊限制语对于商务英语的交际效果有着举足轻重的作用。
本文根据分析了商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能,指出合理地使用模糊限制语能使商务交际更准确、更灵活、更礼貌、更有效。
标签：商务英语信函模糊限制语语用功能一、引言随着社会经济的高速发展，商务英语信函逐渐成为人们在全球经济领域内国际贸易双方进行书面商务信息沟通的重要手段,通过它人们可以交流信息、联系业务、商谈贸易、磋商、处理问题、传递友谊等，其撰写成功与否对企业的业务很关键。
目前模糊语言广泛应用于多种商务信函中，这些模糊语言的使用在很大程度上提高了语言交际能力,使得商务信函更加严谨、准确、礼貌、得体，能产生积极的效果,从而实现和对方良好的沟通,以达到目的。
因此,对于商务英语信函中的模糊语言进行研究具有重要的现实意义。
二、模糊限制语模糊是自然语言的本质属性。
模糊限制语最早由美国语言学家拉科夫（Lakoff）于1972年提出并开始研究的。
拉科夫把模糊限制语解释为“把事物弄得模模糊糊的”语言。
由此可见,模糊限制语是指人们有时无法说得很精确,甚至有意说得“模糊”以达到某种语用目的的语言。
模糊就是指语言的不确定性。
“模糊”并非“稀里糊涂”,也绝非含混不清。
语言是交际艺术的重要手段。
艺术上的模糊,是委婉含蓄的体现。
模糊限制语在商贸谈判、政治外交、法律用语、新闻广告等方面广泛应用,具有很强的语言应用价值。
三、商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能商务英语信函中用到模糊限制语的原因，笔者认为模糊限制语所具备的特殊语用功能可以帮助其实现某种交际目的。
下面分别从礼貌原则、顺应性理论来分析商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能:1.礼貌原则礼貌原则是商务英语信函写作的基本要求。
礼貌现象作为确保人类交际成功的基本手段之一,引起了语用学、社会语言学、心理学的广泛关注。
商务英语信函中模糊限制语的语用功能分析
艺术上的模糊 ． 是委婉含蓄的体现。模 糊限制语在商贸谈判、政 及心理情感因素 。 根据顺应性理论 ．模糊语言是写信者进行语言 治外交、法律 用语 新 闻广告等方面 广泛应用 ． 具有很强的语言 选择和语言顺应 的结果。商务英语信 函中模糊限制语具有传递适
应用价值。
量信息 、提高商务语言弹性和礼貌 性等语用效果。如 ：
要的现实意义。
一
２ 顺应 性理论 ．
Ｖ ｒｃｕｒｎ ” 用学综观 — ｅ ｈｅｅ 的 语 ｓ 的顺应 性理论为语 用学提供 了 二 ．模糊 限制语 个全面而科学 的研究视 角． 尤其是对顺应论的阐释． 可以说具 有 模糊是 自然语言的本质属性。模糊限制语最早由美国语言学 重大的理论意义 。顺应性理论 认为 ： 当人们不愿意做到更准确 时 家拉科夫 （ａｏｆ Ｌｋｆ ）于 １ ７ ９ ２年提 出并开始研究的。拉科夫把模糊 使 用模糊语言 ． 即故意使用 ．如 ： ｕ ｈＹ ａ ｐｏ ｉ ｔｌ ．ｂ ｕ ． ｒ ｇ ｌ ．ｐ ｒ ｘｍａｅＹ ａｏ ｔ ｏ ｒｕ ｄ ｒ 限制语解释为 “ 把事物弄得模模糊糊的 语言 。由此可见 ， 模糊 ａ ｏ ｎ ｏ ＳＯ ａ ｌ ｓ等。这类范围模糊限制语可对事物做出一种 ｔｅ ｔ ａ
Ｏｕ ｓ ｍ ｐｅ ｗ ｉｌａｒｖ ａ ｏ ｔ ２ Ｓ ｐ ｅ ｂ ｒ ｒ ａ ｌｓ ｌ ｒｉｅ ｂ ｎｄ ｅ ｔｍ ｅ ｕ
．
三 商务英语信函 中模糊限制语 的语用功能 语所具备 的特殊语 用功能可以帮助其实现某种交际 目的。下面分
语用功能 ：
（ 我们的样货大
商务英语信函中用到模糊限制语的原因 ．笔者认 为模糊限制 约 ９ ２号到达。 月 ） 由于客观因素 ． 卖家无法确定到 货的具体时间。万一不能按 余地了 ． 买方也会酌情考虑 ． 灵活调整 ， 同时卖家也保护 了自己 ． 避免不必要 的纠纷。可见 ．商务英语信函 中模糊 限制语的运用使 四 结语 商务信函是国际商务交际的主要方式 ． 国际商务交际的生 是 别从礼貌原则 、 顺应性理论来分析商务英语信函中模糊限制语的 时到货 ， 很可能给买方造成经济损失。但是 “ 大约 就有回旋 的
商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能
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在 国际 商 务往来 中 商 务 英 语信 函 是 一 种 重要 的沟 通 信息 方 式 作为 贸易往来 的 书面性 文件 商 务 芙语 信函 的写 作有 约 : C o s S ) 内容 具 体 ( C o l 定 俗 成 的 7 c 原则 结 构 完 整 ( m p l t e e l e e r e t e n e s s C o n e s e n e s S C a r i t ) 表 达正 ) 文字 简 明 ( ) 意 图 清 晰 ( l iy C o e e n e s s C o n s i de a r ti o n ) 和 语 气 礼 貌 ( C o u r te 确( 二 t ) 立场周到 ( y ) 避 免 因 为 语言 的模 棱两 可 而引 起 误 解 但 在实 际操作 中 s 常常 会恰 当地 使 用 模 糊 语 言 不 仅 不妨碍交 际 反而 在 模 糊 的 表 面下 追 求 内涵 的 委 婉 性 和 灵 活 性 在不 明 确 中诊 释 自己 的 动机 做 到从 容应 对 进 退 自如 在 商 务 活 动中 起 到不 可 估 量 的 重要作 用
例析国际商务谈判中模糊语言的语用功能
例析国际商务谈判中模糊语言的语用功能1 模糊语言的定义MaxBlack认为:“语词的模糊性就表现在它有一个应用的有限区域,但这个区域的界限是不明确的”。
Lakoff则把作为模糊语言重要组成部分的模糊限制语(hedges)释义为“把事物弄得模模糊糊的词语”。
这些对语言模糊性定义的解释,仁者见仁,智者见智。
就实质性而言,语言本身是非量化的模糊集合,具有非物质形态的和非直观的朦胧特性。
语言的模糊性信息作为这种非定量模糊集合的要素,正是语言的模糊性在人们交际中的体现形式,而得到语言使用者的普遍认同与接受。
事实上,语言的模糊性并不会妨碍交际,相反言语交际与信息交流需要大量模糊语言的存在。
2 模糊语言研究的意义对模糊语言进行研究,具有重大意义。
它有助于自然科学的研究与发展,有助于社会科学的研究与发展,有助于提高对语言自身的研究,有助于提高语言的表达效果。
在商务英语谈判中,能否恰当地运用模糊语言,使语言交际活动能够在和谐的氛围中顺利而高效地完成,从而达到更好的商务谈判效果,深入了解商务英语谈判中模糊语言的现象及其语用功能是非常重要和十分必要的。
3 商务英语谈判中模糊语言的语用功能3.1 避免绝对,使话语既灵活又严谨在商务谈判中,最重要的一点就是要尽量促使交易在和谐、友好的气氛中进行。
尤其是跨国交易所涉及到的不同文化心理、社交礼仪、价值观的差异等更为复杂的因素。
为了避免把话讲得太绝对,说话人常常运用模糊语言侧路将输出的信息“模糊化”。
模糊语言,其功能就是为了增强语言表达的灵活性,给言语交际双方留下一个缓冲的余地。
在商务谈判中,根据市场变化的情况,出于商业利益的考虑而使用模糊语言,不但可以使商务交往进行得有声有色,而且既做成了贸易,又促进了友谊。
如:We have already checked all the documents available,and Unexpectedly find each of them has doubtful points more or less．句子表明说话人在陈述对于检查结果的不满意。
试述函电中模糊语言的浅议.
试述函电中模糊语言的浅议摘要:在实际商务活动中,为了能够达成特定的交际目的,商务英文信函经常使用模糊语言。
模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能主要有四个方面:提高表达的客观性和准确性;礼貌功能;自我保护功能;促进合作的功能。
语言的使用是十分复杂的语用过程,语言的人际功能、施为功能、感情功能等决定了出于不同社交目的、处于不同社会地位的人们为了自己的表达需要,常常使用模糊语言,以便在不明确之中准确的诠释自己的动机,实现预计的交际目的。
从某种程度上说,模糊性是人类语言的基本属性之一。
商务语言是自然语言,同样具有模糊性的特点。
而商务英语信函属于应用文体,具有很强的交际目的和特定的交际对象,而其最终目的就是使其商务活动运作顺利并最终达成交易。
随着经济日趋全球化,人们开始高度重视模糊语言在国际商务交流中的运用,在一贯要求明确简洁的国际商务信函中,模糊语言得到越来越广泛的应用。
本文对模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能进行了分析和探讨。
1 提高表达的客观性和准确性清楚、准确是商务英语信函的语言特点之一。
然而语言的准确性并不只在于使用精确的语言,有时候使用模糊语言比精确语言表达得更加准确。
因此,商务交际中明白精确的语言固然很重要,但在许多情况下无法用精确语言描述事实,模糊语言的使用可以更准确地表达信息,提高语言的客观和准确性。
例如: According to the market investigation, there is a steady demand for silk garments in the market. According to 这一模糊限制语的使用,将作者本人的主观分析隐含于市场调查的客观结论中,使该结论更具客观可信性,避免武断地将个人观点强加于读者。
此外,该词的运用使这一陈述具有不确定性、模糊性,而市场需求也同样具有模糊性与复杂性,用模糊限制语能对这一现象做出相对准确的描述。
2 礼貌功能礼貌是商务英语信函重要的语言特点,礼貌得体的语言有助于树立良好的企业形象,建立友好的合作关系,促进商务活动的成功。
浅谈模糊语在商务英语谈判中的应用
浅 谈 模 糊 语在 商务 英 语 谈 判 中的应 用
董 摘 璐 （ 武汉大学珞珈学院大英教研室 ４ ３ ０ ０ ６ ４） 要：模糊性是人类语言的基本属性之一，人们的 日 常人际交往离不开模糊语言。在强调准确严谨的商务英语谈判 中，恰当地使用模糊
商务 英 语 谈 判 语 用 功 能 三 、模 糊 语 在 商 务 英 语 中 的语 用功 能 Ｌ ｅ ｖ ｉ ｎ ｓ ｏ ｎ认为模糊语可 以保住说话人 和听话人 的面子，是一种交 际上的礼貌策略 ，使会话保持友好状态 。王学森认为 ， “ 在 日常交谈 中 ，受特定 的语境限制 ，或者出于礼貌 ，有时为了尊重对手 ，给对方 留点面子，或者不把话说 的太死 二留余地 ，使 双方都有退 步的余地 ， 或者谈话双方 出于同情 、谦让 、 缓解谈话氛围等原因 ，人们往往借 助 模糊语 来达到这些 目的。 ” １ 、灵 活机 智 在商 务英语谈判 中，人们常 常用模 糊语来 避免让谈判 陷入僵 局。 有时 ，话说得越绝对 ，在谈 判 中就 越没 有 主动权 。适 当地 运 用模糊 语 ，可以让 自己在谈判 中灵活回答对方 问题 ，处于进退 自如 的主动地 位 。 例 如 ：Ｉ ｔ ｈ ｉ ｎ ｋ ．ｉ ｆ ｙ ｏ ｕ ｃ ａ ｎ ｌ ｏ ｗ ｅ ｒ ｙ ｏ ｕ ｒ ｒ ｅ ｑ ｕ ｉ ｒ ｅ ｍｅ ｎ ｔ ，１ ｓ ｈ ａ ｌ ｌ ｔ ｒ ｙ ｗ ｈ ａ ｔ Ｉ
现的而且存在一定 的风险 。因此 ， 用模糊语来表达反而 比较合适并 且
显 得 更 加准 确 。如 ：Ｉ ’ｍ ａ ｆ ｒ ａ ｉ ｄＩ ｃ ｏ ｕ ｌ ｄ ｎ ’ｔ ａ ｇ ｒ ｅ ｅ ｗ ｉ ｔ ｈ ｙ ｏ ｕｆ ｏ ｒ ｓ ｕ ｃ ｈ ａ ｂ ｉ ｇ
ｄ ｉ ｓ ｃ ｏ ｕ ｎ ｔ ．Ｉ ｎ ｔ ｈ ｉ ｓ ｗａ ｙ，ｉ ｔ ｗｏ ｎ’ ｔ ｌ ｅ ａ ｖ ｅ Ｕ Ｓ ａ ｎ ｙ ｔ ｈ ｉ ｎ ｇ ．Ｏｕ ｒ ｍａ ｘ ｉ ｍｕ ｍ ｉ ｓ １ ０％ ．
商务英语信函中模糊语的语用分析-商务英语-毕业论文
商务英语信函中模糊语的语用分析摘要商务英语信函的内容是严肃且清晰的，因此人们通常认为商务英语信函中不会出现模糊语言。
然而，在现实的应用场景下，人们在某些特殊的商务来往中会使用模糊语言来达到其目的。
对商务英语信函中的模糊语言从顺应理论，合作原则和礼貌原则的的研究视角进行语用方面的分析是非常必要的。
在商务英语信函中应用模糊语言可以促进达成商务上的某些目标，由于商务英语信函的写作背景不同，所以商务往来中的物质世界，心理世界，社交世界达不到有效顺应。
此外，通过具体实例验证了商务英语信函中的模糊语在违背合作原则以及礼貌原则的基础上才能达到目的。
旨在使商务谈判者能够在合适的时间使用合适的模糊语创造一种融洽的氛围取得良好的交际效果。
关键词：模糊语言商务信函顺应理论礼貌原则合作原则语用学Pragmatic Analysis on the Vague Language in EnglishBusiness CorrespondenceAbstractIt is believed that the content of the English business correspondence is serious and clear, so normally, people may think there will be no vague language in English business letter. However, people will use vague language to achieve purpose. Thus, it is necessary to pragmatically analyze vague language in English business correspondence from the perspectives of adaptation theory, cooperative principle and politeness principle in life.English business correspondence can be used to help the users to achieve certain business targets. Because of the different writing backgrounds of English business correspondence, the business language cannot be effectively adapted to the physical world, psychological world and social world in business communication. In addition, it is verified by concrete examples that the vague language in English business correspondences can only achieve its purpose on the basis of violating the principle of cooperation and politeness.The aim is to enable business negotiators to use appropriate vague language at the right time to create a harmonious atmosphere and achieve good communication results.Keywords: Vague Language business correspondence adaptation theorypoliteness principle cooperation principleContents Introduction (1)Chapter 1 an introduction of the Research (3)1.1 The Background of this Research (3)1.2 The Significance of the Research (4)1.3 Literature Review (4)1.4 Brief Introduction of the Thesis (6)1.5 Methodology of the Thesis (6)Chapter 2 Theoretical Framework (7)2.1 Adaptation Theory (7)2.2 Cooperative Principle and Politeness Principle (7)Chapter 3 Vague language in English Business Correspondence (10)3.1An Introduction to English Business Correspondence (10)3.2 The Definition of Vague Language (10)3.3 Vague Language in English Business Correspondence (10)Chapter 4 Pragmatic Analysis of Vague Language in English Business Correspondence (13)4.1 Analysis on Vague Language from the Perspective of Adaptation Theory (13)4.2 Analysis on Vague Language from the Perspectives of Cooperative Principle and Politeness Principle (16)Chapter5 Pragmatic Functions of Vague Language in English Business Correspondence (19)5.1 Making Language Persuasive (19)5.2 Making Correspondence Proper (19)5.3 Strengthening Self-protection (20)Conclusion (21)Bibliography (24)Acknowledgments (25)IntroductionWith the globalization of the economy, English business correspondence has gradually become an important part of life and work, and it directly affects the cooperation of enterprises or individuals. However, it is found that the vague languages of the English business correspondence is extensive used and makes English business correspondence more agile. It is also showed that the vague language used in business correspondence is mainly based on three principles, which are Cooperative Principle, Adaptation Theory and Politeness Principle.This thesis has six chapters in total.Chapter one is a general introduction of this thesis, including the previous study related to this topic, the significance of this study, the background and some relevant information. The first part of this research has literature review as well. It makes a conclusion on the adaption theory and some other theories in the part of literature review. By interpreting the term, the vague language becomes more unambiguous. The vague languages in English business correspondence are appeared. After these reviews, the perspective and the framework are followed.Chapter two present the theoretical framework of this study. The main theory used in this thesis is adaptation theory which is introduced from the four aspects of adaptability specifically and comprehensively in chapter two. Then it follows a brief introduction of cooperative principle and politeness principle. Lastly, an explanation is made to tell how the three theories support this study comprehensively and systematically.Chapter three gives a general idea of the vague language and the English business correspondence. There are some introductions of English business correspondence. Besides, there are some dates from other linguists. In the study, the detailed definition of English business correspondence and the vague language is presented.In Chapter four, it analyzes the vague language in English business correspondencepragmatically from the perspectives of adaptation theory, cooperative principle and politeness principle.Chapter five is the relatively significant part. This part primarily represents the pragmatic functions of vague language in English business correspondence. It makes language persuasive, make correspondence proper and strengthening self-protection as well.The last one is the conclusion about this thesis.This study is conducted to help people have a clearer and more comprehensive idea on vague language used in business correspondence. And some conclusions are made to help language users to take good advantage of vague language when they make business communication.Chapter 1 Introduction of the Research1.1The Background of this ResearchIn the world, accompanied with high development of the economy, cross-cultural communications has become more ordinary, continual and necessary. On the premise of this phenomenon, English business correspondence, as one of the most effective medium of business communications, is frequently used in a wide range of business activities. But unfortunately, because of the limitation of users’ educational background, awareness and capacity of using a foreign language, a lot of misunderstanding occurred every day, causing a great amount of economic loss.As referring to correspondence, “clear, concise, correct, concrete, considerate, courteous and complete” named as 7Cs principles dominate the writing of English business correspondence.[1]Actually, vague language is widely used in English business correspondence because it can help achieve certain communication effects.Now, many reports or researches of vague language are directed from semantic perspective concentrate on analyzing the significance of vague expressions. It is obvious that this type of research is half-baked to analyze vague language of English business correspondence, on account of usage of language has to acclimatize itself to the changing world.Vague language in English business correspondence in former reports or studies, it is analyzed by using relevance theory, politeness principle, etc.1.2 Significance of the ResearchMore and more countries actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative, so the international business and communication become more prosperous. English business correspondence, the significant way for business communication, is playing a more and more important role in the international communication and business. Although business correspondence is normally regarded as serious and accurate text, there are many vaguelanguages appear in these texts. Vague language is widely used in business, but many people don’t have a very clear idea about it. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct such study to help people have a clear and comprehensive idea about it.A lot of people, especially businessmen and businesswomen who do international business, have already been aware of the enormous function of English letters. People use English correspondence every day in the world. However, some details ignored like vague language caused misunderstanding even financial loss often. But few people pay much attention to this kind of details because it is just like a drop in the bucket comparing with their business. It is known that details determine success or failure, so this thesis is to study some details that people often ignore but very important academically and practically.This thesis is to achieve three goals. The first one is to present the usage of vague language English business correspondence clearly and systematically by materials collecting and analyzing. The second target is to attract people's attention of vague language in English business correspondence no matter where they are .The last and practical one is to conclude some rules or principles that can be universally used in English business correspondence that make the communication between Chinese and English more effective and efficient.1.3 Literature ReviewAs this thesis is to study the pragmatic usage of vague language in English business correspondence, it is necessary to review the previous study of vague language. Applied linguist Channell has pointed out that vague language should be studied with semantics and pragmatics, especially with pragmatics due to the utility of vague language. [2] In linguistic study, semantics and pragmatics are the two common and useful aspects researchers use. So this part will make a review of the previous study from the perspective of semantics and pragmatics.Previously, most scholars focused on the semantic functions of vague language. And in a quite long time, semantic study was the mainstream of vague language study. Channel is one of the representatives. Lakoff and McCawley also came up with some ideas about vague language. For example, Lakoff thought that in the real practice, the usage of vague always has some limitations so that the meaning of the texts can be obtained. In addition, Chinesescholars like Wu Tieping and Zhang Qiao shared their opinion toward vague.Linguistics develops greatly and more and more researchers shifted their attention to the pragmatic study. The outstanding representatives in this field are Cystal, Davy, A.H.Jucker and Chinese scholar He Ziran. Many valuable ideas are put forward by them. Jucker thought that vague language are pervasive in daily use. He Ziran analyzed and studied vague language from the perspective of speech act theory. And he came up with the idea that vague expressions can make utterance more appropriate.1.4 Brief Introduction of the ThesisMore and more countries actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative, so the international business and communication become more prosperous. English business correspondence is playing a more and more important role in the international communication and business. But not so many people aware the importance of vague language in English correspondence and can us it properly. So this thesis is trying to analyze the usage of vague language in English business correspondence pragmatically from the perspectives of adaption theory, politeness principle and cooperative principle.There are three initiatives of this thesis. Firstly, this thesis is to present the usage of vague language English business correspondence clearly and systematically by materials collecting and analyzing. Secondly it is to arouse people's awareness of vague language in English business correspondence; no matter they are in the field of international trade or English study. The last and practical aim of this thesis is to conclude some rules or principles that can be universally used in English business correspondence that make the communication between Chinese and English more effective and efficient.1.5Methodology of the ThesisThe qualitative analysis is put in to use under guidance of Adaptation Theory, Cooperative Principle and Politeness Principle to figure out when and why the vague language is used in the English business correspondence. And this analysis is to find out how does vague language works in the process of business communications to achieve the communicative proposes and what kind of functions it has in the communication.Some texts of English business correspondence are selected as example to support the analysis. In order to make this study authentic and accurate, every example is selected from the real business communication or published works. And the analysis method is relatively fixed.It is known to all that every letter is written for some purposes and should be adapted to the real world the people related. Thus, adaptation theory is chosen as the major framework of this study. Business correspondence is an interaction between different groups. Normally, there some rules in this society which are universally accepted in order to make the interaction conducted effectively and efficiently. In order to make this pragmatic analysis more authentic and comprehensive, cooperative principle and politeness principle are also put in to use.By analyzing, some phenomena hidden are found out and some reasons are concluded. Then how vague languages functions in English business is figured out.Chapter 2 Theoretical Framework2.1 Adaptation TheoryLanguage comes from the practice and develops in this environment. The choice of language should not be fixed, but dynamic, because this world is changing rapidly. When something new appears or something has changed, language will respond. Adaption to the social world means how languages are used to deal with something interpersonal. Properness, politeness and so on are took into account. Adaption to the psychological world study on how people use language to express their mood, for example, their cheerfulness, dissatisfaction, anger and so on.Adaptation to temporal reference“Time is often regarded as an absolute notion, but in some cases, it is used as a relative one in language.”[3] Normally, time is an absolute notion, but sometimes, it is a relative concept. In business communication, the user may tell the time vaguely to avoid unnecessary or potential dispute. What man can do is to prepare for the future and avoid an absolute guarantee.Adaptation to spatial referenceSpatial reference is another point that should be taken seriously. Spatial factor is frequently used in business practice. It is known to the public that spatial factor always be accurate. But in the real business practice, things are different. Sometimes, language users may use some vagueness to fulfill their communication purpose.Adaptation to social positionThe position in social world is one of the most important standards to depart groups and just due to the social positions, people would like to choose the most appropriate language to communicate with each other. [4] Especially in business, the social statuses of the information receivers decide how much benefits the information expressers can make. So this issue should be taken seriously.Adaptation to social conventionsSocial conventions are determined by social culture. When communicate with people who have their own conventions, the language should be selected and used carefully in order to fit their common practice and establish a harmonious relationship.Adaptation to senders’ psychological worldSenders write a correspondence to express his or her intention, which is related to business in most cases. In order to make this intention fulfill, it should be expressed properly. So sometimes the sender turns to vague language.Adaptation to receivers’ psychological WorldNormally, if a person writes to the other one, the sender may have certain purpose, for example, to send a message of comfort and concern, to ask for a favor or to express dissatisfaction. [5]No matter what kind of intention the sender has, positive of negative, the point is that whether the receiver can feel it. If the receiver feels nothing, then no matter how beautiful language the sender uses, this letter is meaningless. So, that is to tell that the sender should focus on the receivers’ psychological world in order to make his massage or letter powerful and efficient. In business, the sender should fully consider the psychological world of his business partner. As long as the sender figures out the character and needs of the receiver and what kind of way of communication the receiver can accept, he has great opportunity to write a great correspondence.2.2 Cooperative Principle and Politeness PrincipleEnglish business correspondence is one of the most practical and efficient tools to maintain a successful business, and it has many functions, like to exchange information, to share ideas, to discuss something or even to solve the dispute. [6]So the cooperative communication shows its significance in business practice. In business, sometime the communicators try to break cooperative principle, so that communication can go smoothly.The vague language is always adjusted by the users. The language users always try so hard to find out the best words or expressions to make a proper and smooth communication. It shouldbe understood that vague language is not the universal method for a successful communication.Cooperative Principle and Politeness Principle will help to explain why vague language appears in English business correspondence.As Verschueren puts, “language is constrained by the society and certain culture, and it should be used to adapt to different intentions.”[7]In the interactions of business, everyone tries their best to achieve their initial purpose and make profits from the business relationship. Being polite is often the first option for communicators to maintain an efficient cooperation, and a harmonious and solid cooperation is the precondition of successful business. After the study, it can be seen that in most cases, the senders will try their best to look polite and leave a good impression on their business partner.Chapter 3 Vague language in English Business Correspondence 3.1 An Introduction to English Business CorrespondenceEnglish business correspondence writing format of business communication. It is used to exchange information, to express intention or request or to discuss business affairs. It can be used person to person, person to organization, or organization to organization. English business correspondence can be defined as follows:“The letters written for the purpose of requesting or conveying information, making arrangements for business activities or dealing with matters concerning business negotiations.”[8]As a way of business communication. There is no certain or fixed classification of English business correspondence, but it is clear that there are many different kinds of English business correspondence in practice.3.2The Definition of Vague LanguageThere is not a certain definition about vague. Vague languages have greater generalization and flexibility than precision languages. While there are many different descriptions of vague language. Opinions toward vague language are different.Peirce, the person who gave the notion of vagueness in language in the first place, explained vague language philosophically: “A proposition is vague where there are possible states of things concerning which it is intrinsically uncertain whether, had they been contemplated by the speaker, he would have regarded them as excluded or allowed by the proposition.”[9]In his opinion, vagueness is significant and needed, so expressions can be made “without deciding whether these facts are excluded or allowed by them” [10]. Many scholars who study vague language philosophically hold the opinion that vague language is put into use when natural language is used to express different kinds of ideas.Vague language has gone through a series of changes and improvement in the past few years.Kempson carried on the semantic study of vague language, then she developed it into the philosophical level.In her opinion, vagueness is a relatively comprehensive notion, therefore many other similar terms can be included in vagueness, for example, ambiguity, generality and ambivalence. She categorized vague language as “referential vagueness, indeterminacy of meaning, lack of specification in the meaning of an item and disjunction in the specification of an item’s meaning”[11].Some Semanticists study vague language in a narrow field and that is what most precious study did. It is clear that it is not easy to move forward that way. So Channell, as an outstanding representative of pragmatists, changed the previous path and found new way out. What she did is to study vague language dynamically and keep focuse on the real practice of vague language. She carried out her research into a specific situation. In her point of view, vague language is:“An expression or word is vague if: a. it can be contrasted with another word or expression which appears to render the same proposition: b. it is ‘purposely and unabashedly’ vague; c. its meaning arises from the intrinsic uncertainty referred by Peirce.”[12]On the one hand, Channell inherits the semantics study of vague language. On the other hand, she valued Peirce’s theory pretty much. So she drew on Peirce’s finding and combined semantic study with philosophical study, making the study of vague language more comprehensive. All in all, Channell’s effort makes the study of vague language moves forward.At present, “There is no unanimous definition of vague, but there is one character of vague language that universally acknowledged, that is uncertainty.” [8] That is to say, many scholars or researchers admit that language of vagueness carries something uncertain which stops information receivers from getting information directly and quickly. Vague language is also stated as: “vagueness in content and vagueness in mood”. [13]3.3Vague Language in English Business CorrespondenceBusiness English correspondence is an important means for people engaged in international business to communicate with each other and exchange information. Normally,vague language is likely to affect the correct understanding of information by both parties and cause unnecessary troubles and disputes, which should be avoided as far as possible.For example, in the letter of offer, detailed information such as commodity name, specification, quantity, packing conditions, price, and terms of payment and time of delivery should be listed. So that the business can be done successfully.But in some specific cases, such as dealing with complaints and claims, persuading the other party to accept their offer, striving for more favorable terms, avoiding possible responsibility, etc., people need to transfer the related information by vague strategy in order to make an elastic response. So that they can strive for the time or opportunity of consultation or discussion. For example, when it comes to the time language users don’t use exact time like May 1st or 4:00 P.M. on the contrary, they may use expressions like “as soon as possible”, “quickly” and “tomorrow afternoon” to avoid the potential delay. In addition, some adverbs and adjectives can sever as vague expressions, for example “slightly”, “comparatively”, “excellent”, “incredible” and so on.Therefore, when writing business letters, the appropriate use of vague language will make communication more flexible and strategic. What’s more, as it presented the form of vague in English business correspondence is various.Chapter 4 Pragmatic Analysis of Vague Language in EnglishBusiness Correspondence4.1 Analysis on Vague Language from the Perspective of Adaptation TheoryIn this chapter, some cases from the real business practice will be presented and the pragmatic analysis will be made in details, which are the adoptions to the physical, social and psychological world.4.1.1 Adaptation to the Physical WorldEvery business movement takes place in the real world, which is also called, the physical world. As we all know, people usually express and analyze information according to their own understanding. Their won mind definitely influence their choice of language, because they observe this world in their unique way and correspondently describe and express it in their own why.According to the previous study and some information related, it is found that temporal reference and spatial reference are the most frequently used subjects in physical world. So it is means that these two factors greatly influence people’s choice of language. For the purpose of avoiding potential and unnecessary embarrassment and undertaking responsibility, language users sometime may make good use of vague language to talk about time and space. And the date and experience show that this kind of method works in the practice of communication.a) Adaptation to Temporal Reference.Here are two examples:Example 1We have received your message. It is so great to be your supplier. But we sincerely apologizefor the miss of information. We will send you the details as soon as possible.In this sentence the writer doesn’t give a certain time to the receiver. No one knows how soon “as soon as possible” is, so the receiver cannot blame the sender if he think the message is delayed. Thus, by using the vague expression, the user hedges off the potential risks. There are many case about the usage of relative notion of time. Here is another example:Example 2We think you and your team are very professional and we are grateful for your propose. The management are discussing this propose now, and I will let you know when the final result comes out.In this example, it seems that the writer gives a time point to the receiver. What the receiver should do is to wait. In fact, the time point is very vague. The receiver totally has no idea about when the final result will come out. So it is clear that the decision maker takes the initiative and his voice is more powerful than the receiver’s.b) Adaptation to Spatial ReferenceHere is an example:Example 3We are sincerely inviting you and your colleagues to attend our strategy meeting. The meeting will be held in our office which is very close to the IFC.The description is vague, because readers cannot know the real distance between the office and the IFC. Actually, this kind of description can be accurate, like “our office is only 100 meters away from the IFC.” But “very close” is enough because it can leave an impression to the reader that the office is near the subway station. Sometime, an impression can make difference.Example 4We are sincerely inviting your to the summit in Huang Hai hotel. In this summit, the market outlook will be presented and our strategy analysts will share their new findings ofinvestment. We have arranged your seat in the front. We hope you can attend that day and give your valuable comments on these ideas and strategies.Usually, the arrangement of the seats reflects people’ rank in a group. People with high rank always sit in the front. So if a reprehensive of a corporate tells his business partner that he has arranged a seat in the front intentionally or unwittingly, the partner may think that representative respects him very much. But the representative’s expression is too vague to show the real position of his seat and also his status.4.1.2 Adaptation to Social WorldPeople often think that business correspondence is serous and fixed. In most people’s opinion, clarity is a distinguishing feature and vague language can never appear in business language, especially in business correspondence, which is always regarded as some kind of official paper. Following the rules or principles which universally accepted is one of the most important preconditions for people to pursue a harmonious interpersonal relationship. And in the real practice, it is also a matter to make communication strategies according to different people’s specific situation.In this circumstance, what kind of language should be put into practice when they communicate is up to the position of addressees. Another circumstance should be also paid attention to, that a person may many different titles or identities in different situation, so it is really matter whether the sender can choose proper language for the same person’s different identities. If they do it successfully, there will be a good start of a good business.Sometimes, going straight forward is not an appropriate way of communication, especially when you communicate with people who have higher position that you do. In this circumstance, vague language can function. Using vague correspondence is to give an open answer the addressee which can give the addressee a chance to go through the information and analyze it according to his will. Finally, the addressee may make a final decision that both parts can accept.Here is an example:Example 5。
浅析国际商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能
浅析国际商务英语中模糊语言的语用功能模糊语言是语言本身具有的特点之一,并广泛应用于人们的言语交际中。
国际商务交际则是一种特殊的言语交际,模糊语言也大量存在于其中。
并且模糊语言在此具有独特的语用功能。
文章在介绍了模糊语言的前提下,通过详细的举例,着重探讨了模糊语言在国际商务英语中的语用功能。
标签：模糊语言国际商务英语语用功能在1957年,英国著名语言学家琼斯开始觉察到语言的模糊性质。
他说:“我们大家(包括那些追求精确无误的人)在说话和写作时常常使用不精确的、含糊的、难以下定义的术语和原则,这并不妨碍我们所用的词是非常有用的,通常人们尽管使用不精确的表达方法和难以下定义的术语,但仍能相互理解。
”商务语言是人类语言在商务中的应用,因而同样具有“模糊”和“精确”这两种特性。
商务英语的重要特点之一就是精确,即确保在书写商务电函与合同,或进行商务谈判等商务交际过程中避免使用模棱两可或引起歧义的语言,以免造成商务活动中的不便和误解。
但是,在实际商务交际中,商务语言确实存在着模糊性。
商务语言有时有意说得“模糊”一点,以达到某种语用目的,从而促使商务目的的实现和商务活动的顺利进行。
一、模糊语言学的产生传统语言学的基本准则要求语言表达清楚、正确。
但是由于客观实体边界的不明确性,人们对事物观察的不同角度或缺乏全面的认识,导致语言使用的不一致性,从而使模糊的语言形式成为一种必然的存在。
苏联语言学家谢尔巴说过:“在语言中,明确的只是极端的情况。
过渡的现象在其本源中,即说话人的意识中原本是游移不定的。
正是这些模糊的、游移不定的现象应更多地引起语言学家的注意。
”遗憾的是这些关于语言模糊性的看法在当时并没有引起人们过多的注意。
长期以来,模糊语言未受到应有的重视,直到1965年美国控制论专家查德提出了著名的模糊理论,开创了新型的科学思想方法,这才引起语言学界对模糊语言的普遍关注, 模糊语言学也随之应运而生。
我国的模糊语言研究起步于上世纪70年代末。
商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能【lunwen+开题+综述】
Bi Ye Lun Wen（20_ _届）英语模糊语在商务英语信函中的语用功能The Pragmatic Function of Vague Language in Business Correspondence摘要模糊与精确是人类语言的两种基本属性。
“模糊”的概念和理论自从提出后的几十年里，人们对模糊语言进行了系统的研究。
商务英语信函一贯要求内容和信息准确，所以商务英语信函中的模糊语一直被忽略了。
本文从四个方面对模糊语之前的研究进行了归纳，然后对商务英语信函做出分析。
最后探讨了以下两个问题：（1）不同类型的英语商务信函中模糊语的使用情况（2）在英语商务信函中模糊语具有哪些功能。
从对相关英语商务信函的分析和研究，模糊语在中性或好消息，传递不愉快和不确定答复的信息和说服信三种信函中，运用是不同的。
而且模糊语言在商务交际中有四个语用功能：使商务语言更礼貌和更有说服性；提高商务语言的灵活性，增强商务语言的正确性和提高写信人自我保护功能。
关键词：模糊；模糊语；商务信函；语用功能。
IIIAbstractVagueness and precision are the basic attributes of human language. Since the concept and theory of vague language was proposed by L.A Zadeh in 1965, much has been done in systematic and descriptive study of vague language. Business English has always been required to be clear and concrete, so the study of vague language in this field has long been neglected. The author takes a review of previous research on vague language from four perspectives and then makes an analysis on the business correspondence. This study attempts to explore the following two questions :( 1) How does the addresser use vague language in different type of business correspondence?(2)What pragmatic functions does the vague language make in business correspondence? Based on the definition and delimitation of vague language in the present study and the analysis of the data, it is found that the use of vague language is different in good-news and neutral letters, bad-news letter and persuasive letters. Vague language has four pragmatic functions in written business communication: (1) making the writing more polite and persuasive, enhancing the flexibility of business language, making the expression more accurate, and ensuring self-protection.Key words: vague; vague language; business correspondence; pragmatic function.IVContentsAbstract (Ⅱ)1Introduction (1)1.1Overview (1)1.2 Rationale of the present study (1)1.3 The specific research questions (2)1.4 Outline of the thesis (3)2 Review of previous research on vague language (3)2.1 Pragmatic perspective (3)2.2 Philosopher perspective (3)2.3 Psychological perspective (3)2.4 Semantic perspective (4)3 Business correspondences (4)3.1 Definition of business correspondence (4)3.2 Classification of business correspondence (5)3.3 Principle for business writing (5)4 Specific contexts of using vague language in business correspondence (6)4.1 Employment of vague language in good-news and neutral letters (6)4.2 Employment of vague language in bad-news letter (8)4.3 Employment of vague language in persuasive letters (9)5 Four pragmatic functions of vague language in business correspondence (10)5.1 Making the writing more polite and persuasive (11)5.2 Enhancing the flexibility of business language (12)5.3 Making the expression more accurate (13)5.4 Ensuring Self-Protection (13)6 Conclusion (14)6.1 Major findings (14)6.2 Implications (14)6.3 Suggestion for further study (15)Bibliography (16)Acknowledgements (17)1.IntroductionVagueness and precision are the basic attributes of human language, both of them are very important. Precision is needed most of time when people want to express emotion, while vagueness also plays an important role because some things are vague. In fact, vague language doesn’t affect communication; on the contrary, it has special functions, making the words more polite and flexible. As the development of international business, people pay more attention on the vague language in business corresponds. In the present thesis, the author finds that vague language is used to realize the addresser’s communicative intention, and it is the result of the adaptation to various contexts.1.1OverviewSince Zadeh first proposed the concept and theory of vague language, people have done much systematic descriptive study on vague language. Many linguists think vague language play an important role in communication. Whether one can properly use vague language shows one’s language perfo rmance, because vague language is an inseparable part of language communication.(Zhang, 1998)It can be easily found that vague language has always been used as a communicative strategy in business activities. The addresser shows his communicative attention by it. And it also provides addressee with a guideline for understanding the addresser’s intentions. Crystal and Davy (1975) give four reasons for vagueness: (a) memory loss- the speaker forgets the correct word; (b) the language has no suitable exact word, or the speaker does not know it; (c) the subject of the conversation is not such that is requires precision, and an approximation or characterization will do; (d) the choice of a vague item is deliberate to maintain the atmosphere. Channel (2000) arg ues that “vagueness in language is neither all ‘bad’ nor all ‘good’. What matters is that vague language is used appropriately.” If it is used properly, vague language would lead unexpected success.1.2 Rationale of present studyThe author chooses the vague language in business corresponds as the object of the present study mainly because of the following reasons.Firstly, although vague language has been accepted extensively, and the researches about it are more and more, there is still a little research about the vague language in business corresponds. Maybe it is because the traditional idea that business corresponds should be clearly and accurately without any ambiguity. However this study argues that proper vague language has the special characteristics other words can’t instead.Secondly, the study on vague language in business corresponds has practical significant. People can use vague language perfectly if they comprehend it. The addresser can show his intention with vague language and the reader can understanding the real mean of the letter.Thirdly, in traditional opinion, writing business corresponds should follow 7Cs principle, that is, be clear, concise, correct, courteous, conversational, convincing and complete. However, in some situation, the 7Cs can’t meet the demand because not everything in business is certain. Sometimes, people will adopt vague language rather than follow strictly the 7Cs so as to avoid unnecessary disputes or to facilitate business deal.1.3 The specific research questionThe present study has focused on the employment of vague language in business correspondence, and in so doing, it has set out to work towards answers to the following two questions:1. How does the addresser use vague language in different type of business correspondence?2. What pragmatic functions does the vague language make in business correspondence?1.4 Outline of the thesisThis thesis consists of six chapters. Chapter one is a general picture of the vague language. It introduces the vague language and the rational of the study and the research questions. Chapter two is a review of previous research on vague language. And the author mainly focuses on pragmatic perspective. Chapter three gives a research on business correspondence. And it mainly focuses on the classification of business correspondence and 7C principles in business correspondence writing. Chapter four describes the different use of vague language in different type ofbusiness correspondence. In this chapter, the author uses many business correspondences as examples to show that vague language used in each type of letter is the result of adaptation to its specific context. The employment frequency is different in good-news and neutral letters, bad-news letter and persuasive letters. In chapter five, the author gets four pragmatic function of vague language in business correspondence: making the writing more polite and persuasive, enhancing the flexibility of business language, making the expression more accurate, and ensuring self-protection. The chapter six is a conclusion which summarizes the major findings of the present study. At the same time, some suggestions are provided for further research on vague language.2 Review of Previous Research on Vague LanguageThe following is a brief survey of the related studies on vague language since the present study is about the employment of vague language in written business discourse. Vague language is an interdisciplinary subject with four perspectives, namely philosophical perspective, psychological perspective, semantic perspective and pragmatic perspective. And it will mainly focus on pragmatic perspective.2.1 Pragmatic perspectiveWhat pragmatics focuses on is the relationship between language and language users, and the pragmatic principle of the language. Atmosphere is very important to this relationship. People always enhance the speaking effect with vague language.Channel is one of the most famous linguist in this aspect. She thinks that using vague language is a language policy for native English speakers. In her vague language, Channel lists eight situations or purposes for people to use vague language: giving the right amount of information; deliberate withholding information; lexical gaps; lacking specific information; displacement; self-protection; power and politeness; information and atmosphere; women’s language(Channel,2000:194). The vague language’s pragmatic function can be seen from the above review. And a pragmatic perspective is necessary in the present study for the purpose of exploring the pragmatic function of vague language.2.2 Philosophical perspectiveWith the linguistic turn of philosophy at the end of nineteenth century, some attention is drawn to the phenomenon of vagueness of natural language in the philosophical circle (Ballmer & Pinkal, 1983:2). Philosophers have concentrated on the origin of vagueness, and they have worked hard to solve the problems of “why natural language has such property as ‘vagueness’ and how this property is handled”.2.3 Psychological perspectiveActually, vague language is less analyzed from the psychological perspective .But there are still some research. Psycholinguists focus on the question of how ambiguous sentences are comprehended in spoken and written discourse. It is viewed by psycholinguistics that potential ambiguity, which is considered as a kind of reflection of vagueness in our terms, is pervasive and ubiquitous in natural language.2.4 Semantic perspectiveMuch attention has been paid on the vague language in the field of formal semantics. Truth-conditional semantics which aims to describe the meaning of sentences in terms of the conditions usually operates with three truth value: true, false, and lacking a true value.3 Business CorrespondenceSince it is a research on vague language in business correspondence, it is necessary to have a general idea about what business correspondence is and what its characteristic is.3.1 Definition of business correspondenceBusiness refers to all the activities of buying and selling goods or services. Business correspondence is one of the basic means of communication in international trade. It used to sell products or services, request material or information, answer customer inquiries, maintain good public relations, and serve a variety of other business function. In order to write effective business correspondence, it is quite essential we have a good understanding of the language characteristics and some principle of business correspondence so as to establish relationship and get a satisfactory result.3.2 Classification of business correspondenceBusiness correspondence may be classified from various angles. The most common ways of classification are as follows:The first one is classified based on the content of the correspondence as follows: request correspondences, correspondences answering requests, claim and adjustment correspondences, credit and collection correspondence, sale correspondences, employment correspondences and social business correspondences, etc(Stewart, 1984: 380-381)The second one is classified based on the different functions in the process of a business transaction. There are correspondences for establishment of business relations, correspondences for the enquiry of business, quotation correspondences, negotiating correspondences, confirming order correspondences, payment correspondences , shipment and insurance correspondences, acknowledge goods receipt correspondences, claim correspondences and adjustment correspondences, etc.(Shi ,1993)The third one is classified by the intention that the information given. Stwart (1984: 382) summered up “four kinds of information in terms of its effects on the readers’ needs：good-news correspondence, neutral-news correspondences bad-news correspondences and persuasive correspondences. Good-news correspondences and neutral-news correspondences together are called everyday correspondence.”It is impossible to make a complete and perfect classification as business correspondences’ various and rich types. And it can be found that there is no differencebetween some types of correspondences, so sometimes we can’t distinguish one kind of correspondences from others. Letters of establishing business relations, orders, confirmation to orders, routine inquires, reply to inquires, favorable response to claims and adjustment requests ,favorable replies to credit inquires, shipping advice and so forth fall into good-news letters and neutral-news letters, while letters about orders such as back orders, substitutions, infallible orders and non-confirming orders, negative answers such as denying cooperation with routine requests, declining invitations and request for favors, and adjustment of claims and complaints etc. belong to bad-news letters. Persuasive letters are letters that aim to convince the reader to do something not previously considered or something that might be inconvenient. Sales letters, claims letters and letter that request special favor orinformation such collection letters belong to persuasive letters.(Hu ,2005:10)3.3 Principle for Business Writing7C principles in business correspondence writing (Lu Mozhu, 2002:1-5)(1)Consideration: Prepare every message with the reader in mind and try to put oneself in his place. Adapt the language and message to the recei ver’s need, and focus on the positive rather than the negative approach.(2)Courtesy: Courtesy is not mere politeness. The courteous writer should be sincere and tactful, thoughtful and appreciated.(3)Clarity: The writer must try to express himself clearly so that the reader will understand. To achieve this, he should keep in mind the purpose of his correspondence and use appropriate words in correct sentence structure to convey his meaning. He should also avoid ambiguous sentences.(4)Conciseness: conciseness means saying things in the fewest possible words. A concise business correspondence should say things briefly but completely without losing clarity or courtesy.(5)Concreteness: Make the message specific, definite and vivid.(6)Correctness: Correctness means appropriate and grammatically correct language, factual information and accurate figures.(7)Completeness: A business communication should include all the necessary information.It is absolutely right that the business correspondences should be precise because the addresser should give the correct information to the addressee which matters two companies’ relationship. Only that, the addressee can know the addresser’s real intention without misunderstanding. However, in some situations, the principles are not against the use of vague language in business letters. Vague language will play an important role in business correspondences if it is used properly. So vague words and precise words are both needed.4. Specific Contexts of Using Vague Language in Business CorrespondsBusiness corresponds can be divided in to three types, namely, good-news and neutral letters, bad-new letters and persuasive letters. And addresser will choose proper words to adapt the context. Vague language used in each type of letter is the result of adaptation to its specific context.4.1 Employment of vague Language in Good-news and Neutral LettersIn this kind of letters, good news or routine, neutral information are carried. Such as placing an order, making an adjustment requested by a customer, and supplying information. The information in the letters is positive and good for the relationship of both sides. So these letters are relatively easy to write.The order letterIn an order letter, the addresser uses less vague language because he has to explain every detail to avoid the trouble caused by inaccuracy. However vague language still exists when it mentions personal emotion. An example is given as follows:We have much interest in the different models of electric fans you offer, but as we have had no experience in dealing in Chinese electric appliances we can only place a small order at the moment for a trial sale for the following on the terms and conditions stated in your letter.500 sets of “Five Rams” Brand, Model 145 USD 14.5 per set CIF2% Port LouisI hope we will keep a long mutually beneficial trading relationship.The purpose of this letter is to indicate the details of quantity, price, shipment date etc. when describe these, there is no vague language because these information must be accurate. And the addresser use vague language “much” and “small’’ to descriptive the interest and order. The addresser shows his interest towards the electric fans. “A small order” may give the addressee the impres sion of a potential big order in the future. It is benefit for the trade cooperation. It is more acceptable compare with the letter without vague language although the means aren’t changed.Inquires and reply to inquiresThis pair of business corresponds is written as the first exchange of information. Both parties want to give the other a friendly and cooperative impression. So the addresser uses vague language to make its language not so absolute but morecomplimentary and its content more negotiable.Dear SirWe have been looking for a reliable manufacturer to supply us with photocopying machines on a regular basis. I visited your stall at the Spring Guangzhou Fair, 2006 and noticed that you manufacture photocopying machines.There is a good demand for photocopying machines of high quality. We are very interested in your products and would be glad if you would send us your catalogue with full specifications and latest price list.Please let us know what discount you can give us for substantial orders as well as some other favorable terms that may help us to make the best choice for our purpose. We are looking forward to receiving an early reply.At the beginning of the letter, the addresser compliments the addressee a “reliable” manufacturer which makes the addressee feel pleasant. Then the addresser uses several vague expressions to give positive feelings to the other party. The request seemed to be attractive and negotiable. After reading this letter, the addressee will try his best to satisfy the request for the potential big order in the future.The adjustment letterThe main purpose of the adjustment letter is to give the reader positive information. When a customer seeks an adjustment, most firms grant the adjustment immediately although they are not sure whose fault. Sometimes neither party appears to be at fault, and a third party may be responsible, but the firms don’t want to lose a customer.Dear SirsHere is our credit memorandum for $521, which covers the returned shipment of Family lawn chairs ($477.80) and shipping charges ($43.20).Although the chairs we sent you seem to be the ones listed in your April 7 order, perhaps they are not what you had in mind. I’m sending you a copy of your order, together with an ad sheet of the Family Line, so that you may check. Because we think there might have been some misunderstanding,we are paying the return shipping charges, which we don’t ordinarily do.The important thing, of course is that you have a stock of lawn chairs to meet your summer needs. Be sure to place another order soon so that you may have them for the first warm day. Separately I am sending you a section from our general summer furniture catalog: you might be more interested in the new Easy-fold ling, which isfast becoming our best seller.Let me know, please, how I can be of future help. By the way, we can ship your next order the same day it is received.Sincerely yours Vague expressions “seem to be”, “what you had in mind” ar e used because the addresser think although they sent chairs as customer’s order, the customer doesn’t satisfy because it is different from the chair they want. The addresser gives the information that it’s not just their fault mildly with “some misunderstanding”. But the company still agree to give customer compensation, it creative chance to communication next time.Therefore, the addresser adopts vague language when conveying good-news message or neutral message. Such employment of vague language helps the addresser realize his communicative intention more smoothly.4.2 Employment of vague language in bad-news letterThis kind of letter is difficult to write because it gives negative information. If the addresser can’t use proper words, the reader might be angry. But if the words are chosen properly, it would give the other an honest impression. And it is very important to the relationship between two companies.Adjustment refusalAdjustment refusal is a typical kind of bad-news letter expresses negative information. It needs the addresser have skills of using vague language.Dear Ms.Black:I talked with you on the telephone about returning the machines yesterday, and I promise we are willing to do as much as we reasonably can to make things right. What we can do in each instance is determined by the facts of the case. When the machines arrived today, I was shocked at their condition. All returned machines must be unquestionable new. As you know, our customers expect only the best from us. So I’m afraid we can’t receive the machines.I’m sorry to disappoint you, but under the circumstances I am confident that you will fully appreciate my position.Very truly yours, The final aim of the addresser is to refuse adjustment. And he uses a large number of vague words to avoid the unhappy consequence caused by refusal. Itseemed polite and honest. And it is good for solving the problems. The addressee may be enraged if the addresser refuses him directly. So using the vague language in bad-news letter properly is real important.4.3 Employment of vague language in persuasive lettersSimply defined, persuasion is the art of getting people to do something that they would not ordinarily do if you don’t ask. The es sence of persuasive letter is making the reader believe what the addresser says and getting the reader’s understanding and support. Then the reader will do as the addresser’s anticipation. In the persuasive letter, vague language is used frequently.Sales letterIn the sales letter, the addresser uses a lot of vague words to persuade the addressee purchasing the goods.Dear Sirs,I enclose an illustrated supplement to our catalogue. It covers the latest designs which are now available from stock.We are most gratified that you have, for several years, included a selection of our products in your mail-order catalogue. The resulting sales have been very steady.We believe that we will find our new supplement; please let us know if you would like to take the matter future. We would be very happy to send samples to you for closer inspection.For your information, we are planning a range of classical English dinner services which should do well in the North American market.We will keep you informed on our progress and looking forward to hearing from you.Yours faithfully,Peter Vague language is most frequently employed in this type of letter. And the letter becomes attractive and persuasive with vague words. In the above example, the addresser persuades the addressee to purchase their new products with frequent employment of vague language which makes the letter more persuasive. However, if the letter was written without vague language, it would be very normal and the persuasive function will be little.ConclusionIt can be easily found that vague language exists in every type of businesscorresponds. And in different contextual, different vague language are used to express the addresser’s intention. And as we see, the employment frequency are also different in different type of business corresponds. In good-news and neutral letters, little vague language is used. While more vague language exists in bad-news letter and persuasive letters. And the chosen of the vague language depends on the writing purposes. Channel (2000) argues that “vagueness in language is neither all ‘bad’ nor all ‘good’. What matters is that vague language is used appropri ately.” If it is properly used in business correspondence, the vagueness will promote the business communication and help to fulfill the communicative purposes.5 Four Pragmatic Functions of Vague Language in Business CorrespondenceWith the rapid development of Socio-economic, English business corresponds has became a important way to communication with each other in the global economic fields. People can exchange the information, contact business and deal with problems by it. Now there are much vague language are used extensively in business corresponds and it not only affect the preciseness of the expression but also get many advantages. Vague language has four pragmatic functions in written business communication: (1) to make the writing more polite and persuasive; (2) to enhance the flexibility of business language; (3) to make the expression more accurate (4) to ensure self-protection5.1 Making the writing more polite and persuasivePoliteness is a basic principle in people’s communication and we sh ould consider the feelings of others. Brown and Levinson (1987) suggest that “one way for speakers to be polite when expressing a point, which might be construed as threatening or rude to the hearer, is to be vague.” Likewise, Channell (1994:206) argues t hat an understanding of vague strategies would seem to be essential to the analysis of some types of politeness. Pilegaard(1997:35) points out that in business correspondence, politeness strategies are used to(1) prepare the group for formulation of the letters main request, (2) redress the face-threatening act of requesting, and(3) round off the letter. Channell(2000) holds that “vagueness is used as one way of adhering to the politeness rules for a particular culture and of not threatening face”. Vague la nguagein business correspondence can save both the addresser’s and the addressee’s face. Alexander (1994: 18) point out that “your reader must be addressed in a sincere, polite tone: your letter should be courteous when writing business letters”. Now that politeness is an important principle of business correspondence, and one way to follow this rule is to use vague language.(1)Your reply is a little lateThe use of “a little” ease the tough tone, makes opponent aware his mistake but give him face. This practice is polite and socially. It makes possibility for the cooperation next time.(2)We saw other company’s catalogue, and I’m afraid that your price is not competitive.It doesn’t use “expensive” but “is not competitive”. Their means are the same while the second one is more polite and acceptable.Hubler(1983) also holds that the reason for using hedges is to make sentences more acceptable to the addressee and thus increase their chances of ratification, which in turn would facilitate business. According to Hubler the function of hedge is to reduce the chances of negation, which could save both of the addresser’s and the addressee’s face. So it is very important to pay attention to the principle of politeness in business corresponds, and it is a pragmatic principle we must follow.Channel summarized that one of the purposes of using vague language is for using language persuasively.(3)As a busy manager, you appreciate the importance of meeting deadlines; customers demand prompt service. On the othe r hand, you are sensitive to your employees’ need. When the day is too hectic for an hour away for lunch, employee performance can suffer. Gordon’s Deli has a solution that will perfectly serve your needs.The addresser uses “prompt” and “perfectly” to describe the service which is demanded by the customer and the quality service they offer respectively. The two words give the information that what you need is just what the FaxFood service offers, this service may be your right choice. And it is more persuasive than express the mean directly.5.2 Enhancing the flexibility of business languagePreciseness and accurate is indispensable in business. But sometime we need vague language to avoid the conversation be too absolute because some questions are。
商务英语谈判中模糊限制语的语用功能及策略
商务英语谈判中模糊限制语的语用功能及策略在当今全球化的商业环境中，商务英语谈判已成为企业间合作与竞争的重要手段。
在这个过程中，语言的运用至关重要，而模糊限制语作为一种常见的语言现象，在商务英语谈判中发挥着独特而重要的作用。
一、模糊限制语的定义及分类模糊限制语是指那些使事物变得更加模糊或不那么精确的词语或表达方式。
它们可以被分为两类：变动型模糊限制语和缓和型模糊限制语。
变动型模糊限制语主要通过改变话语的原意来达到模糊的效果，例如“大约”“大概”“左右”“近似”等。
这类词语能够在数量、范围、程度等方面提供一个大致的估计，而不是精确的数字或描述。
缓和型模糊限制语则是用来表明说话者对所表达内容的不确定性或缺乏足够的证据，比如“我认为”“我觉得”“可能”“也许”等。
它们可以减轻说话者的责任，使话语更具灵活性和可接受性。
二、商务英语谈判中模糊限制语的语用功能1、增强语言的灵活性在商务谈判中，情况往往复杂多变，使用模糊限制语可以让谈判者在表达自己的观点和立场时留有一定的余地，以便根据谈判的进展和对方的反应做出调整。
例如，“我们可能会考虑在价格上做出一定的让步，但这需要进一步商讨。
”这样的表述既表明了己方有让步的可能性，又没有给出明确的承诺，为后续的谈判留下了空间。
2、体现礼貌与尊重商务交往中，礼貌和尊重是建立良好合作关系的基础。
模糊限制语可以帮助谈判者避免过于直接和强硬的表达，从而减少对对方的冒犯。
比如，“我不太确定您的这个方案是否完全符合我们的需求，但我们可以一起探讨一下。
”这种委婉的表达方式能够让对方更容易接受批评或不同意见。
3、保护自身利益在谈判中，双方都希望最大程度地保护自己的利益。
模糊限制语可以使谈判者在不暴露自己底线的情况下进行试探和沟通。
例如，“我们的成本大概在这个范围内，但具体数字还需要进一步核算。
”这样的说法可以防止对方获取己方的准确成本信息，从而在价格谈判中占据优势。
4、促进合作与妥协当双方在某些问题上存在分歧时，使用模糊限制语可以缓解紧张气氛，促进双方寻求共同的解决方案。
商务英语函电写作中模糊语言的功能及运用
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模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能
模糊语言在商务英语信函中的语用功能[摘要] 通过对大量商务信函范文文本的分析，模糊语言广泛应用与多种商务信函中。
模糊语言的恰当运用在很大程度上提高了语言表达的灵活性，使得商务信函更加礼貌、得体，获得了良好的交际效果。
[关键词] 模糊语言商务信函语用功能引言众所周知，商务英语信函的语言力求准确严密，清楚易解，避免模棱两可，似是而非，以免引起双方的误解。
至今为止，中外许多学者都相继提出了商务英语信函的写作原则，即7“C”原则。
由此看来，商务英语信函似乎不需要模糊语言。
然而，模糊语言在商务英语信函范中的应用却不胜枚举。
它看似模糊，实则具体，囊括了更宽的范围，防止产生漏洞，对经贸双方的活动都产生了一定的影响。
一、模糊语言概述人类语言中，许多词语所表达的概念都是没有精确边缘的，即都是所谓的“模糊概念”。
人们在交际活动中，经常自觉不自觉地使用许多模糊概念和表达模糊概念的模糊词语。
因此，“在一定意义上我们可以说，没有模糊词语，便没有人类的自然语言”(伍铁平，1999：364)。
模糊性是现实世界的基本特征和常规现象，作为客观地反映现实世界的语言必然会带有模糊特性；另一方面，出于语言表达的策略考虑，人们也常常故意使用一些语义模糊的词语以适应不同的交际需要。
自20世纪80年代以来，学术界对语言的模糊性根源就一直存在着争论。
近年来，有关文献对此问题作了总结，归纳起来不外乎三个方面：客体、语言和认识主体。
吴世雄和陈维振(2001：7-14)总结了我国模糊语言学发展初期国内学者对语言模糊性产生根源的看法，认为语言模糊性是主体在认识客体世界过程中与之相互作用的结果在语言上的反映。
吴涌涛也认为：“模糊性产生的根源不仅在于客体，不仅在于主体，也不仅在于符号（语言）本身，而是主体和客体在语言中相互碰撞的结果，是三方面的特点同时决定的，不能只从单方面讨论模糊性”(转引自李文戈，武柏珍：2004)。
二、模糊语言在商务英语信函中的运用及其语用功能作为专门用途英语，商务信函有着自身特点。
商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能【文献综述】
文献综述英语商务英语信函中模糊语言的语用功能一、前言部分（说明写作的目的，介绍有关概念，扼要说明有关主题争论焦点）模糊语言是语言本身所具有的一个特点，并广泛应用于语言交际中。
模糊语的大量存在有其客观性，是日常交际中不可避免的现象。
但更多情况是人们故意使用模糊语言来达到某种目的。
商务语言的模糊性及语用功能在商务信函中非常重要。
商务英语信函作为重要的国际贸易交流方式，要做到礼貌，严谨，准确。
正确了解模糊语言的功能，可在商务信函中充分利用模糊语言积极地一面，避免消极的一面，由此促进交际双方有效完成商务交易。
模糊语言指具有模糊性的语言单位，即模糊词和模糊结构。
伍铁平教授指出“‘模糊’指的是一种不确定性是指语言中词语表达的中心意义明确，但词语所指范围边界是不明确的”。
研究模糊语言首先要了解模糊性的概念。
国内外学者认为模糊性是指对象类属边界不清晰和性态不确定的特性，它与歧义性，概括性，多意性等是有区别的。
查德教授1965年出版的《模糊集》标志着模糊语言的诞生。
在中国对模糊语言学作过系统研究的首推北京师范大学的伍铁平教授。
他1979年发表于《外国语》杂志你的《模糊语言初探》标志着模糊语言在中国的诞生。
商务英语信函是国际经济贸易进出口双方一个很重要的沟通手段，国际贸易各个环节的磋商和沟通主要都是依靠信函的方式来实现的。
因此商业信函的撰写对实现进出口双方的有效沟通，乃至对双方业务关系的建立和促进都起着至关重要的作用。
因此，商务信函的表达要具体，清楚，准确，而模糊语的使用是不可缺少的。
正确，恰当地使用模糊语言可以提高言语的正确性；表达礼貌，增强商务运作的灵活性，以及加强自我保护。
可见模糊语对商务信函的重要性。
而了解了模糊语在商务信函中的功能，能促进人们更好地使用模糊语。
二、主体部分（阐明有关主题的历史背景、现状和发展方向，以及对这些问题的评述）传统语言学的基本准则要求语言表达清楚，正确。
但是由于客观实体边界的不明确性，人们对事物观察的不同角度或缺乏全面的认识，导致语言使用的不一致性。
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语言的模糊性是一种广泛存在的现象，因为很多情况是相对的，或者没有办法做明确的界定。
商务英语这种人们在商务情景下使用的语言，自然也具有模糊性。
这似乎有悖商务英语的重要特点：精确，即确保在书写商务邮件与合同或进行商务谈判等商务交际过程中避免使用模棱两可或引起歧义的语言，以免造成商务活动中的不便和误解。
但其实模糊语并不影响有效的商务交际，相反其丰富的语义内涵及语用功能往往能起到精确语言所不能及的表达效果。
模糊性主要指语言的不确定性，即语言的所指、能指或表述的不确定、不具体、不肯定现象。
商务英语邮件作为一种书面沟通方式，涉及到国际商务交际的方方面面，在商务英语中发挥着非常重要的作用，因此本文将主要针对商务英语邮件中模糊语言进行分析和探讨。
在商务英文邮件中，模糊限制语虽看似模糊，实则具体，使话语更严谨、客观。
它的语用功能在商务英文邮件中发挥了重要的作用,概括起来为以下四个方面:
一、提高语言表达的灵活性我们知道,为了使贸易双方达到最佳的交际效果,商务英文邮件要求使用精确的语言以达到交流的目的。
但有时使用太过精确具体的语言会造成表达的绝对性,使买卖双方操作或执行起来有困难。
而模糊语的使用则可以弥补了这个问题。
例1、We should be glad if you could manage to arrange shipment by "Flying cloud" sailing on or about the 20th, and cable us your shipping advice immediately after the departure of the vessel.[1] 如果你方能在20号左右安排"飞云"号运货，并在船只离港后立即通知我方已发货，我方将很高兴。
这个句子使用范围模糊限制语"about"、"immediately"对话语涉及的范围进行修正,避免话语太过绝对,好像有命令的口气，提高了表达的灵活性，也方便了对方实际操作发表职称论文加微信 LSN2020 例2、You would save a lot if you order a little more. We offer a discount for large orders.[2] 如果你们定的多就省的多。
对大单订购我们会有优惠。
这句话中使用了模糊语言元素"a lot"、"a little more"、"large"，一方面通过折扣来吸引客户增加订单，但是具体增加多少，可以省多少，多大的订单可以享受折扣，都没有明确说明，这样给双方都留有余地，更能抓住买家的心理，提高了商务交际语言的灵活性。
二、使语言更加礼貌在外贸的书信往来中,虽要求语言要精确具体,但对于一些敏感性的话题或涉及双方隐私的内容,往往采用。