INDIRECT PERFORMANCE OF EXPRESSIVE SPEECH ACTS SUCH AS APOLOGY, REGRET, REPROACH, CRITICISM
Article:
Download
About author:
Tatiana SÎMBOTEANU
Cercetător științific
The Bogdan Petriceicu-Hasdeu Institute of Philology
E-mail:
tatiana.simboteanu@sti.usm.md
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52505/llf.2025.2.12
Abstract: This paper analyzes the indirect realization of expressive speech acts, focusing on how speakers convey apology, regret, reproach, and criticism without using explicit performative forms. It presents the main types of structures used for indirect expression, such as rhetorical questions, conditional clauses, impersonal and passive constructions, as well as the use of adverbs or the subjunctive and conditional moods to soften the message. It also describes the ways in which speakers make their expression gentler in order to avoid direct and potentially conflictual communication. The analysis shows that these forms of expression influence the listener’s reaction and help maintain a balanced relationship. Thus, indirectly expressed apologies, regrets, and criticisms become means of protecting interpersonal relationships.
Keywords: indirect speech act, expressive speech act, apology, regret, reproach, criticism