Abstract:Body language is one of the most common forms of non-verbal communications in intercultural communication. It plays an important role in cross-cultural communication. However, for some reasons there may occur pragmatic failures when using body languages in intercultural communication. One important reason is negative pragmatic transfer, so it is necessary to be clear about differences of body languages in different cultures in order to avoid negative transfer. Therefore, the thesis starts off with comparison of body languages in different cultures. Then it analyzes the reasons for the differences. Pragmatic failures of body language caused by negative pragmatic transfer should be paid sufficient attention, for they may cause misunderstanding and hinder communication. In the end the thesis puts forward some suggestions to avoid the communicating conflicts caused by negative pragmatic transfer of body languages in order to guarantee the success of intercultural communication.

Key Words: body language; intercultural communication; pragmatic failure；negative pragmatic transfer 

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review.1

3. Body Language and Negative Pragmatic Transfer.2

3.1 Definition and Classification of Body Language

  3.2 Definition and Classification of Negative Pragmatic Transfer

4. Comparison of Body Languages in Chinese and English3

  4.1 Gestures

  4.2 Facial Expressions

  4.2.1 Eye Contacts

  4.2.2 Smiles

  4.3 Postures

5. Reasons for Negative Pragmatic Transfer of Body Languages and Suggestions7

  5.1 Reasons

5.1.1 Differences of Cultural Background

  5.1.2 Differences of Values

  5.2 Suggestions

  5.2.1 Developing Speakers’ Cultural Awareness

  5.2.2 Raising Pragmatic Competence of English Learners

6. Conclusion10

Bibliography.11

Acknowledgements12