Lingthusiasm - A podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics

99: A politeness episode, if you please

Dec 20, 2024
Dive into the fascinating world of politeness and rudeness as hosts explore linguistic nuances that shape our communication. Discover how concepts like 'saving face' vary across cultures and the impact of social settings on etiquette. The conversation veers into the comedy of polite exits and the absurdities of conversational styles. You'll also learn about generational shifts in email manners and the different uses of 'please' in British versus American English. It’s an entertaining look at the complexities of communication we often overlook!
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INSIGHT

Balancing Help and Independence

  • Politeness balances the desire for help and independence in social interactions.
  • This balance causes diverse and culturally specific polite behaviors and expectations.
ANECDOTE

Jocularity in Saying Goodbye

  • Gretchen shares a family joke about politely telling guests to leave.
  • This humor softens the message while maintaining politeness without hurting feelings.
INSIGHT

Positive and Negative Face

  • Politeness involves managing positive and negative face needs.
  • Positive face seeks approval; negative face desires autonomy and non-interference.
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