As a matter of tact : a sociolinguistic perspective of English and Maltese euphemisms

Abstract

What language would you use to explain to a child that someone dear to him or her has just died? How would you dismiss an employee? Are you comfortable with referring to the devil as 'devil'? How would you discuss a serious illness? Very often in life one is faced with situations which can prove to be unpleasant, embarrassing or offensive if the appropriate language is not used. Euphemistic and indirect terms may come to the rescue as they prevent what might be an awkward situation for the speaker or the listener present. My dissertation modestly attempts to shed some light on the notion of euphemisms, in particular, on English and Maltese euphemisms in Malta. After giving a brief outline of the etymology and history of euphemisms in general, I will be delineating the manner in which euphemisms are formed and the motives for which euphemisms are used. I intend to explore whether euphemisms are in use on this vibrant, minuscule island in the Mediterranean today, and whether its eloquent inhabitants are aware of what the notion 'euphemism' actually entails. If euphemisms do prove to be in use, I would like to find out in what language (English or Maltese) and context they are used most. I will be investigating which taboos and sensitive issues are prevalent in the Maltese culture, and whether these issues have changed over the past thirty years. Part of my study will also be concerned with euphemisms related to death, illness and religion / religious superstition these themes being deliberately chosen due to their universal nature.