Meaning and Value of Euphemisms in Khmer

Abstract

This study attempts to analyze the denotative and metaphorical meanings of euphemisms in Khmer and to explore Khmer cultural values reflected in those words. Data were collected from three main sources including Khmer dictionaries, websites, and novels and were analyzed using the ethno-semantic approach. It was found that Euphemisms with the denotative meaning were commonly used in words related to body organs; abnormality of physical appearance, mental states and intelligence; animals; bodily effluvia; sexual activities; diseases; occupations, and ethnicities, respectively. Euphemisms with the metaphorical meaning, on the other hand, was mostly found in metaphors for death, followed by the natural environment, food, activities, wars, happiness and sufferings, utensils, and cultural practices, in that order. It is also found that euphemisms in Khmer reflect four Khmer cultural values relating to beliefs, persons, society, and lifestyles.