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ABSTRACT
The relationship between informativity and interpretation of euphemism, as well as taboo words and the socio-cultural context in which they are used, were investigated. The aim of the study was to identify and describe euphemistic expressions and taboo words, and their pragmatic and social functions as used by the natives of Nsukka in the Ňsuká dialect. The theoretical framework used is “Politeness Theory” by Brown and Levmson (1987). Data for the study were collected from series of interviews of different age grades in major towns, to get a composite of all euphemistic expressions and taboo words used within the study area. All other observations were well noted. Six (6) classes of data sets were established from this study; morality related taboo, death, and disease related taboo, decorum related taboo, veneration related taboo, religion related taboo and character euphemism. It was observed that only religion related taboos do not have euphemistic expressions, as they are put in place to instill discipline in Nsukka. This study reveals that embarrassment and face loss is strongly avoided, as the Nsukka people often try to look for substitutions to conceal the immoral sensibilities of taboo words. Consequently, euphemism is employed to replace offensive expressions that can cause shame to the speaker of Ňsuká dialect of Igbo language.
