Advice in Conversation: Corpus Pragmatics Meets Mixed Methods

This Element is a contribution to corpus pragmatics research, investigating advice-giving and advice uptake in different discourse contexts over the past half a century. It uses a mixed-methods approach, combining theoretical, qualitative, quantitative, and statistical methods, to explore the range of constructions used to give advice and their interaction with dialogic and social factors. The study finds that there are systematic differences in advising between discourse contexts and that who gave the advice and how they did it are the strongest predictors of the advisee's response.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This groundbreaking Element takes a novel approach to corpus pragmatics research by delving into the intricate nature of speech acts in conversation. By adopting a mixed-methods approach, it aims to explore the multifaceted dimensions of advice-giving and advice uptake in various discourse contexts and at different points in time. Through a unique combination of theoretical, qualitative, quantitative, and statistical methodologies, the Element conducts a comprehensive investigation into the range of constructions used to offer advice and their interaction with dialogic and social factors that shape advice exchanges within natural conversations.

Drawing upon data from the London-Lund Corpora of spoken British English, the Element reveals significant systematic differences in advising practices across different discourse contexts over the past half-century. It further demonstrates that the identity of the advice-giver and the manner in which they deliver their advice hold the greatest influence on the response of the advisee.

This Element not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge in corpus pragmatics but also opens up new avenues for future research. Its innovative approach and comprehensive analysis provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of advice-giving and advice uptake, shedding light on the social and linguistic factors that shape these interactions in natural conversation.

By making this research accessible through Open Access on Cambridge Core, the Element ensures that it reaches a wider audience, promoting the exchange of ideas and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of pragmatics.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009054515