English Euphemisms and Dysphemisms Relating to Female Physiology (Pregnancy and Childbirth)

Abstract

 This article aimed to study some common English euphemisms and dysphemisms on female physiology as exemplified by conception, pregnancy and childbirth, to describe the ways of creating such words and expressions, as well as to provide a sociocultural commentary on the euphemistic markers in contemporary English. The research is relevant due to the fact that euphemisms relating to female physiology have been studied rather superficially. Analysis from the viewpoint of rhyming slang represents a new and promising area in the field of euphemisms. The research methods are determined by the purpose and objectives of the study. The key method is descriptive, implemented using systematization, generalization and interpretation of language material. The linguistic methods include contextual analysis and semantic interpretation. The topic of women’s physiology is represented by expressions characterizing conception, contraception, pregnancy and childbirth that were selected from authoritative dictionaries of euphemisms and general and rhyming slang, as well as English-language fiction. The euphemisms were classified thematically (pregnancy as a special condition, pregnancy as an expectancy period, pregnancy with an emphasis on conception, pregnancy as an increase in the size of the belly, pregnancy as a source of trouble, and pregnancy as an accident). Techniques and means for creating euphemisms under study are presented. Rhyming slang, whose major function is euphemistic, is highlighted as a new promising sector of the functioning of euphemisms and dysphemisms referring to female physiology. The main points and conclusions of the article can be used when presenting the problems of euphemisms and dysphemisms in lectures and seminars on the theory of language, lexicology, stylistics, text interpretation, and intercultural communication.