Abstract:

As a secondary language, phatic communion plays an important role in shortening the distance and maintaining relationship between the communicators. This paper firstly, I introduced phatic communion definition, characteristics and functions. Then I analyzed four aspects of differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, such as Sentences Structures, Topics, Purposes and Taboo. Lastly, I had a conclusion of the reasons for the differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, such as Cultural Factors, Social Factors and Values. This paper tried to study the differences between Chinese and English phatic communion, which aiming at understanding and using phatic communion in western countries appropriately, so as to promote a good relationship between each other, to better achieve cross—cultural communication.

Key words: Chinese phatic communion; English phatic communion; Phatic communion differences

摘要：

作为一种应酬的辅助性语言，寒暄语具有缩短交际者之间社会距离和维持人际关系的作用。本文首先介绍了寒暄语的定义，特点及功能，其次从Sentences Structures, Topic, Purposes和Taboo四个方面分析了汉英寒暄语的差异，最后总结出汉英寒暄语差异的原因，即Cultural Factors, Social Factors和Values。本文试图通过研究汉英寒暄语的差异，旨在帮助人们更好地理解和掌握寒暄语，从而促进中西方人们相互间的友好关系，更好地实现跨文化交际。

关键字：汉语寒暄语；英语寒暄语；寒暄语差异

1. Introduction
Phatic communion can be firstly defined by Malinowskim, who defined phatic communion as “language used in free, aimless, social intercourse”. Phatic communion is the media of exchanging information, which takes the responsibility of transmitting information. At the same time, phatic communion plays an important role in establishing and maintaining social interpersonal relationship. What the importance of phatic communion is well shown in establishing and maintaining relationships among people.
In this paper, I tried to make people better understand and use phatic communion more appropriately in western countries. Firstly, I introduced definition, functions and characteristics, then I analyzed the differences, eventually, I made a comprehensive conclusion of the reasons for Chinese and English phatic communion. In my point of view, phatic communion is frequently used as a tool of communication to create a good environment and strengthen a consolidated relationship, so as to better achieve intercultural communication.