Face and Politeness dalam Pragmatics

Summary

In this video, the speaker explores key concepts in pragmatics, focusing on the roles of positive and negative face in communication. Positive face refers to the desire to be respected and admired, while negative face involves a need for autonomy and freedom. The speaker explains how understanding these faces can help tailor communication, especially in situations requiring requests or assistance. Strategies like expressing admiration for those with a strong positive face or showing consideration for those with a strong negative face can improve the effectiveness of interactions. The video provides practical examples of these politeness strategies in action.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pragmatics is a study of how context influences meaning, and it includes concepts like *face* (positive and negative) in communication.
• 😀 Positive face refers to the desire to be admired, respected, or acknowledged by others, often seen in people with higher social standing.
• 😀 Negative face refers to the desire for freedom, privacy, and not being imposed upon, often felt by people who prefer solitude or autonomy.
• 😀 In communication, understanding whether someone values positive or negative face helps tailor your approach for more effective interactions.
• 😀 When requesting something from someone with a positive face, it's important to show respect and admiration first to align with their social desires.
• 😀 Positive face can be boosted by acknowledging a person’s accomplishments or status before asking for something, creating a favorable atmosphere for requests.
• 😀 Negative face can be protected by giving people space, acknowledging their need for solitude, and not being overly persistent when making requests.
• 😀 The balance between positive and negative face is context-dependent, meaning the communication approach should vary depending on the relationship and situation.
• 😀 Acknowledging and supporting someone's positive face can help gain cooperation, while being mindful of negative face prevents pressure or unwanted demands.
• 😀 The effectiveness of communication is increased by understanding both positive and negative face dynamics, ensuring that interactions remain respectful and considerate.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'face' in pragmatics?

In pragmatics, 'face' refers to the social identity or dignity that an individual aims to maintain in interactions. It can either be a desire to be respected (positive face) or a desire for autonomy and freedom from intrusion (negative face).

What is the difference between positive face and negative face?

Positive face is the desire to be respected, admired, or valued by others, while negative face is the desire to maintain personal autonomy and be free from interference. Positive face focuses on gaining respect, while negative face emphasizes freedom and avoiding intrusion.

How can one maintain positive face in communication?

To maintain positive face, one should show admiration, respect, or appreciation for the other person before making any requests. Acknowledging their status or achievements helps support their positive face.

What is the role of negative face in communication?

Negative face protects the desire for freedom and autonomy. When communicating with someone who values their negative face, it’s important to give them space to refuse or decline without pressure, thus respecting their need for independence.

How does context influence the use of positive and negative face?

Context plays a crucial role in determining which face strategy to use. Understanding the individual's status, emotional state, and the situation helps decide whether to prioritize positive face (respect and admiration) or negative face (freedom and space).

What are politeness strategies in pragmatics?

Politeness strategies, also known as 'lightness,' are communication techniques used to manage face concerns. These strategies aim to avoid face-threatening acts (FTAs) and ensure that the other person’s social dignity is respected.

What is an example of positive politeness in a conversation?

An example of positive politeness would be starting a conversation by complimenting someone’s achievements or expertise before making a request. This acknowledges their positive face and respects their desire for admiration.

How can one use negative politeness in communication?

Negative politeness involves protecting the other person's negative face by acknowledging their potential desire for space or privacy. For example, you might say, 'I know you’re busy, but if you have time, could you help me with this?' to avoid pressuring them.

How does one balance positive and negative politeness strategies?

Balancing positive and negative politeness involves understanding the situation and the person’s tendencies. If the person seeks respect and admiration, use positive politeness. If they value privacy or space, use negative politeness to avoid imposing.

What is the importance of 'lightness' or politeness in pragmatics?

'Lightness' is important because it helps maintain social harmony by minimizing face threats. By using appropriate politeness strategies, individuals can ensure that their communication is respectful and considerate of the other person's social identity.