Term: Phatic Speech

Definition:

Phatic speech or phatic communication consists of words or phrases that have a social function and are not meant literally. When people are thanked, they often say You're welcome in reply, and this is meant to show politeness and not to be interpreted as literally welcoming them.

See Also: Discourse Marker; Semantics; Syntax; Etymology

'Phatic Speech' - Related Links

Grammar Topic: Discourse

Browse the following links to other content related to 'Phatic Speech' from the 'Discourse' grammar category:

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