A Contrastive Study on Politeness Principles between English and Chinese

Politeness,as a symbol of human civilization,is a universal phenomenon of the human society.However,people of different countries observe different politeness principles.A comparative study of the similarities and differences of the politeness maxims in English and Chinese cultures seem to indicate that their essence is shown in English and Chinese cultures.Understanding the similarities and differences in their politeness principles can avoid pragmatic errors and reach the successful purpose of intercultural communication.