Which term refers to social function communication such as starting a conversation, greeting someone, or saying goodbye?

Which term refers to social function communication such as starting a conversation, greeting someone, or saying goodbye?

• A. Phatic communication
• B. Phonemic script
• C. Plenum
• D. Polysemy

Answer: (A)

Phatic communication is language used to establish, maintain, or manage social relationships rather than to convey new information. When you start a conversation, greet someone, or say goodbye, you’re performing a social function that helps connect with others and set a positive tone for interaction. The talk itself isn’t about exchanging new facts; its purpose is to create rapport and smooth the path for any substantive talk that may follow. The other terms don’t describe this social-function role. Phonemic script deals with representing speech sounds, not social interaction. Plenum refers to a full assembly or meeting, not the function of everyday conversational acts. Polysemy is about a word having multiple meanings, which isn’t about how we use language to socialize.

Phatic communication is language used to establish, maintain, or manage social relationships rather than to convey new information. When you start a conversation, greet someone, or say goodbye, you’re performing a social function that helps connect with others and set a positive tone for interaction. The talk itself isn’t about exchanging new facts; its purpose is to create rapport and smooth the path for any substantive talk that may follow.

The other terms don’t describe this social-function role. Phonemic script deals with representing speech sounds, not social interaction. Plenum refers to a full assembly or meeting, not the function of everyday conversational acts. Polysemy is about a word having multiple meanings, which isn’t about how we use language to socialize.