Impoliteness in language use: a study of barrow pushers and the public in onitsha main market
Keywords:
Impoliteness, language use, barrow pushers, public, Onitsha Main Market, discourse analysis, power negotiation, conflict managementAbstract
This study examines the language use of barrow pushers and the public in Onitsha Main Market, focusing on impoliteness strategies. Using a discourse analysis approach, the researcher analysed audio recordings of interactions between barrow pushers and customers, revealing the prevalent use of impolite language, including insults, blame and criticism. The study shows that impoliteness serves as a means of negotiating power, managing conflicts and maintaining social relationships. However, it also leads to communication breakdown and conflict escalation. The findings highlight the importance of language sensitivity training for barrow pushers and the public-potential customer to enhance effective communication and conflict resolution in market settings. The study contributes to the understanding of impoliteness in language use in African markets, emphasizing the need for context-specific approaches to communication and conflict management.
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