Functions of Speech
This function gives information or facts.
What is Referential
Saying “Phones away!” shows this kind of power.
What is authority or clear role difference
This type of politeness keeps distance and avoids pressure.
What is Negative Politeness
In Māori culture, silence often shows this.
What is respect
The way we speak changes based on how familiar we are. What’s this called?
What is Familiarity
This function aims to get someone to do something.
What is Directive
The clarity of roles affects how direct we sound. Name one example.
What is boss vs. coworker / teacher vs. student
This type of politeness builds warmth and closeness.
What is Positive Politeness
In the U.S., saying “no” directly is seen as what?
What is honest
Saying “Doctor Rivera” vs. “Hey, Sam!” shows what kind of difference?
What is formality or hierarchy
Saying “You better study!” mixes directive and this friendly function.
What is Affective
When tension rises, people’s speech tends to become more what?
What is direct
“Would you mind helping me?” shows which politeness strategy?
What is Negative Politeness?
In Japan, silence can mean what?
What is respect or avoiding confrontation
Permission to use a first name is called what?
What is Dispensation
“Drive Carefully; School Zone” combines which two functions?
What are Referential and Directive
Too much directness can sound rude, but being direct also shows what?
What is authority or control
“Let’s work on it together!” shows which politeness strategy?
What is Positive Politeness
The Igbo people of Nigeria often use these for indirect criticism.
What are proverbs
The degree of directness depends on these two things.
What are relationship and setting
Real-life speech often blends functions. What determines which one dominates?
What are context and intention
In stressful workplaces, politeness often disappears because of what?
What are power struggles
The balance between friendliness and respect is called what?
What is Politeness
A British postman called an elderly woman “my love.” She felt insulted, showing this concept.
What is Intent ≠ Impact
Age, setting, relationship, and hierarchy all affect what?
What is politeness choice?