Explanation
Linguistic work through which participants establish, affirm, or alter their relationships with one another. Every utterance can simultaneously contribute to the social space between people.
Example
A cautious objection protects both the issue and the relationship.
Counterexample
Private sympathy without communicative structure does not yet constitute linguistic relationship work.
Distinction
Distinguishing from the principle of politeness: Private sympathy without communicative structuring is not yet linguistic relationship work.
Effect on thought and perception
Every utterance can simultaneously contribute to building the social space between people.
Resonance
Relationship work makes a directed relationship perceptible: Every utterance can simultaneously contribute to building the social space between people.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Relationship-building“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-016. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-016The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.