ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G03-024

Listener response

This explanation addresses the term in its originating context. It is not an additional canonical Atlas profile.

Explanation

Listener response is used here as a broad label for contributions and reactions from the listening participant. Brief feedback belongs here, but not every response leaves the floor with the current speaker. Equating the term with backchannel would therefore be too narrow. The entry links backchannel and feedback signal as more specific neighbouring profiles. What matters is the reaction's local work: enabling continuation, displaying understanding, asking a question or beginning an extended contribution. An isolated word cannot reliably determine its function.

Movement of thought

1. Locate the reaction in sequence. 2. Record its timing and design. 3. Check whether it claims the floor. 4. Examine how the next contribution treats it. 5. Then identify the more specific function.

Example

A brief “yes” during a telling can support continuation; “Yes, but I need to explain something” can launch a new contribution.

Counter-test

A nod proves neither agreement with the content nor complete understanding.

Scientific use case

Audio and video studies can examine verbal, bodily and temporal features together.

Effect

The broader label keeps different forms of participation visible.

Resonance

Listening leaves traces whose significance grows from the shared sequence.

Distinction

Distinguish listener response, backchannel, answer, agreement and speaker change.

Sources