Abstract: Numerical idioms have strong features of nationalities, history and cultures. This thesis focuses on the differences between English and Chinese numerical idioms. Firstly, definition and classification of idioms, definition and significance of numerical idioms are introduced. Then, the differences between English and Chinese numerical idioms are analyzed from four aspects: phrase structures, meanings, taboo and figures of speech. At last, reasons for the differences between English and Chinese numerical idioms are discussed from characteristics of history and cultures and ways of thinking. By comparing English and Chinese numerical idioms, this study aims to facilitate people’s understanding of language and of Chinese and western cultures, so that can be very effective to promote the cross-cultural communication.

Key words: idioms; numerical idioms; taboo number

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Research Background.1

2. Introduction2

2.1 Definition and Classification of Idioms

2.2 Definition and Significance of Numerical Idioms

3. Comparison of Numerical Idioms between English and Chinese4

3.1 Comparison of Phrase Structures

3.2 Comparison of Meanings

3.3 Comparison of Taboo

3.4 Comparison of Figures of Speech

4. Reasons for the Differences of Idioms between English and Chinese.10

4.1 Distinctive Characteristics of History

4.2 Distinctive Characteristics of Cultures

4.3 Ways of Thinking

5. Conclusion12

Bibliography.13

Acknowledgements14