Explanation
A linguistic practice that regulates social proximity, distance, and the public self-image of the participants. In the atlas, the term is not treated in isolation: it links linguistic form and social relationship. This reveals the distinctions that the form enables and how it relates to related phenomena.
Example
Could you perhaps close the window?
Counterexample
A fixed greeting formula does not necessarily constitute strategic politeness in every context.
Distinction
A fixed greeting formula is not necessarily strategic politeness in every context.
Effect on thought and perception
The term draws attention to the connection between linguistic form and social relationship. What previously appeared to be a uniform process becomes perceptible as a structured relationship.
Resonance
Resonance arises when a politeness strategy is not merely named but experienced as a dynamic interplay between form, expectation, and effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Politeness strategy“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-088-015. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-088-015The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.