Positive politeness

Definition

Positive politeness refers to strategies used in communication that aim to enhance the relationship between speakers by expressing friendliness, support, and solidarity. It emphasizes the speaker's desire to be liked and accepted, often through compliments, shared experiences, or in-group language. This form of politeness contrasts with negative politeness, which focuses on maintaining personal distance and autonomy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Positive politeness is often seen in informal conversations where speakers share common interests or experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie.
2. Using humor and informal language can enhance positive politeness by making the interaction feel more relaxed and friendly.
3. In cross-cultural communication, understanding the norms of positive politeness can help avoid misunderstandings and build rapport.
4. Women are often found to employ positive politeness strategies more than men, reflecting social norms around nurturing relationships.
5. Positive politeness can sometimes be misunderstood as insincerity if the relationship between speakers is not well established.

Review Questions

• How do positive politeness strategies help build rapport between speakers in informal settings?
  • Positive politeness strategies help build rapport by creating an atmosphere of friendliness and shared understanding. When speakers use techniques such as compliments, humor, or shared experiences, they foster a connection that makes the conversation more enjoyable. This can lead to greater cooperation and mutual support during the interaction.
• Discuss the role of gender in the use of positive politeness strategies in communication.
  • Gender plays a significant role in the use of positive politeness strategies, as research shows that women tend to employ these techniques more frequently than men. This difference may reflect social expectations that encourage women to nurture relationships and create harmonious interactions. As a result, women may use more compliments and supportive language while men may rely on other forms of communication that prioritize assertiveness.
• Evaluate the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on positive politeness in different cultural contexts.
  • Relying too heavily on positive politeness can lead to misunderstandings, especially in cultures where direct communication is valued over friendliness. In such contexts, excessive use of compliments or informal language might be perceived as insincerity or a lack of seriousness. Additionally, individuals unfamiliar with the nuances of positive politeness may misinterpret these strategies, causing confusion or discomfort in the interaction. Thus, understanding cultural norms is crucial for effective communication.

Related terms

Face theory: A concept in sociolinguistics that describes how individuals maintain their self-image or 'face' in social interactions, often through positive and negative politeness strategies.

Complimenting: A communication strategy that involves praising or expressing admiration towards someone, often used as a tool for positive politeness to foster good relationships.

In-group language: Language or jargon used within a specific group that creates a sense of belonging and community among its members, often utilized in positive politeness to signal affiliation.