Euphemism Enigma: Unravelling Euphemism Functions in Understanding the Bidayuh Biatah Cultures in Sarawak

Abstract

Euphemism, as a linguistic and cultural phenomenon, serves as a reflection of the values and norms within a specific language community. Understanding the functions of euphemisms provides valuable insights into a culture's belief systems, social structures and historical contexts, shedding light on the intricacies of language, culture and beliefs. This paper explores euphemism functions among the Bidayuh Biatah speakers, utilizing Burridge's (2012) framework of six euphemism functions. Through an in-depth examination of euphemisms, this study aims to elucidate aspects of the Biatah culture. The data was gathered through interviews with eight Biatah informants aged 55 to 79 who are residing Kampung Quop, Padawan, Sarawak in Malaysia. The findings unveiled five euphemism functions within the Biatah dialect: Protective euphemism, Underhand euphemism, Uplifting euphemism, Cohesive euphemism and Ludic euphemism, providing a better understanding of the Bidayuh Biatah language and culture.