声明
摘要
Abstract
Contents
1 Introduction
1.1 Need for the Study
1.2 Purpose of the Study
1.3 Research Methodology
1.4 Structure of the Thesis
2 Literature Review
2.1 Ambiguity
2.1.1 Definition of Ambiguity
2.1.2 Researches on Ambiguity
2.2 Humor
2.2.1 Definition of Humor
2.2.2 Researches on Humor
2.3 Ambiguity in Verbal Humor
3 Theoretical Framework
3.1 Definition of Relevance Theory
3.2 Relevance
3.2.1 The Maximal Relevance
3.2.2 The Optimal Relevance
3.3 Dynamic Context
3.4 Ostensive-Inferential Process
4 Analysis and Discussions
4.1 The Contrast between the Maximal and Optimal Relevance
4.2 The Ostensive-Inferential Process of Different Reasons for the Contrast
4.2.1 Phonological Ambiguity
4.2.2 Lexical Ambiguity
4.2.3 Syntactic Ambiguity
4.2.4 Pragmatic Ambiguity
4.3 Functions of Ambiguity in Verbal Humor
4.3.1 Expressing Politeness
4.3.2 Avoiding Unnecessary Debates
5 Conclusion
5.1 General Findings of the Study
5.2 Significance of the Study
5.3 Limitations of the Study and Suggestions for Further Researches
References
Acknowledgements