Discourse markers

Definition

Discourse markers are words or phrases used in conversation to manage the flow of dialogue, signal relationships between ideas, or express the speaker's attitude. They help in organizing speech and making it coherent, serving as cues for listeners to follow along. By employing discourse markers, speakers can navigate politeness and face-saving strategies, as well as enhance coherence in their communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Discourse markers can indicate a speaker's intention, such as signaling agreement ('yeah') or hesitation ('um').
2. They play a key role in managing the social dynamics of conversations, helping to soften requests or convey uncertainty.
3. Common examples include words like 'well', 'so', 'actually', and 'you know', each serving different functions in discourse.
4. Using discourse markers can enhance the fluidity of speech, making it easier for listeners to follow complex arguments or narratives.
5. In written language, discourse markers can also guide readers through arguments and transitions, contributing to overall coherence.

Review Questions

• How do discourse markers contribute to maintaining politeness and face-saving strategies in conversation?
  • Discourse markers play a significant role in managing politeness by softening requests or disagreements. For instance, using phrases like 'I was wondering if...' helps present a request gently, minimizing potential threats to the listener's face. This approach allows speakers to navigate sensitive topics while maintaining respect for the social identities of all participants involved in the conversation.
• Discuss how discourse markers enhance coherence in spoken interactions.
  • Discourse markers enhance coherence by providing signals that guide listeners through the structure of speech. For example, markers like 'firstly', 'on the other hand', or 'to sum up' help organize thoughts and indicate transitions between ideas. This organization allows listeners to understand the relationship between points being made, thus fostering clearer comprehension and retention of the information shared.
• Evaluate the impact of effective use of discourse markers on overall communication effectiveness.
  • Effective use of discourse markers significantly impacts communication by promoting clarity and engagement. When speakers strategically use markers to manage turn-taking and signal relationships between ideas, they create a more interactive and dynamic exchange. This not only keeps listeners engaged but also fosters better understanding, as the flow of conversation becomes easier to follow. Ultimately, this leads to more productive dialogues and successful exchanges of ideas.

Related terms

Politeness Strategies: Techniques used by speakers to maintain face and avoid threatening the social identity of others during interactions.

Coherence: The logical connections that make a text or conversation understandable and meaningful to its audience.

Turn-Taking: The organized manner in which participants in a conversation take turns speaking, often facilitated by discourse markers.