摘  要

“语块”一词最初是由Beeker和Bolinger于上个世纪70年代中期率先提出的,它是指英语中一种特殊的多词汇现象,介于传统的语法和词汇之间,通常是固定的,可预测的,因而便于学习者学习。商务信函作为买卖双方在贸易活动中互通信息最为重要的行为依据和手段。商务英语信函属于应用文的范畴，有着自己独特的语言风格和写作点。语言的功能决定了商务信函必须具有更加快捷、方便、易于表达的手段，这也就自然而然形成了大量的语块性表达方式。本文从“语块”的维度研究商务英语信函写作，阐述语块与信函写作之间的关联性，归纳提出语块性语言对商务信函写作的影响。本文例举了具有代表性的例子。例举了商务信函中的语块运用的相关问题和解决方法，以此给英语学习者和商务从事着提供了有效的建议。

关键词：语块；商务英语信函写作；功能

Abstract

“Chunk” is first put forward by Beeker and Bolinger in the mid of 1970s. It is defined as a special multi-word phenomenon and it lies between grammar and lexis. It is fixed and predictable so that it is beneficial for English learners and users. The chunk is the basic unit of language of English business letter writing, with irreplaceable effect of writing business letters in English. With the rapid development of Chinese economy and accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), trading activities and information exchanges between countries have become increasingly active. A substantial increase in the level of internationalization of China makes business English gradually become “popular major”. Business letter writing is an important means for buyers and sellers to exchange information of trade activities. It can guarantee the business activities carried out smoothly, and help business men find and capture opportunities in the fierce international competition. The use of chunks of language can ensure the letters complete and accurate. This paper first explains the relevance between chunks and letter writing, and points out the effect of lexical chunks of language in business letter writing. The paper mainly illustrates the applications of chunks in international business letter. Additionally, some problems and solving methods are also involved in the paper. From a functional perspective, the use of chunks in business English letters contributes to the accuracy and politeness of language and helps learners to write native-like business English letters. This paper is supposed to provide useful suggestions for English learners and business men in writing business letter.

Key words: chunk; English business letter writing; function