"ZAMONAVIY TADQIQOTLAR VA BARQAROR RIVOJLANISH" respublika ilmiy-amaliy konferensiyasi
COGNITIVE MECHANISMS OF EUPHEMIZATION IN FAMILY DISCOURSE: EVIDENCE FROM ENGLISH
University of Information Technologies and Management
Annotatsiya
This article examines the cognitive mechanisms underlying euphemization in family discourse from the perspective of cognitive linguistics and discourse analysis. Drawing on English-language data, the study investigates how conceptual metaphor, conceptual metonymy, frame semantics, script theory, and pragmatic inference contribute to the formation and interpretation of euphemistic expressions in family communication. The findings demonstrate that euphemization extends beyond the mere replacement of socially sensitive lexical items; rather, it represents a cognitive strategy that facilitates interpersonal harmony, regulates social relationships, and reflects culturally embedded conceptualizations of family life. The analysis reveals that English family discourse predominantly relies on indirect nomination, metaphorical conceptualization, inferential reasoning, and contextual knowledge to mitigate communicative tension while preserving interpersonal politeness. The study argues that euphemistic expressions are cognitive-discursive constructions emerging from the interaction of conceptual knowledge, cultural values, and communicative intentions. These findings contribute to the understanding of euphemization as a dynamic cognitive phenomenon rather than a purely lexical or stylistic device.
Kalit so'zlar: euphemization, family discourse, cognitive linguistics, conceptual metaphor, conceptual metonymy, frame semantics, discourse analysis, pragmatics, English language.