Adjacency pairs

Definition

Adjacency pairs are conversational structures that consist of two related utterances, typically produced by two speakers in a dialogue, where the first utterance prompts a response from the second. These pairs are fundamental to the flow of conversation, as they establish expectations for turn-taking and coherence, allowing speakers to understand how their contributions fit into the larger interaction. Common examples include questions and answers, greetings and responses, or requests and confirmations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adjacency pairs are typically composed of a first part that sets up a response, and a second part that provides that expected response.
2. Common types of adjacency pairs include questions and answers, invitations and acceptances, and greetings and replies.
3. They help maintain the structure and flow of conversation by signaling to speakers what type of response is appropriate or expected.
4. The success of adjacency pairs relies heavily on shared social norms and context; an inappropriate response can disrupt communication.
5. In conversational analysis, studying adjacency pairs can reveal patterns in communication styles and the dynamics of interaction between speakers.

Review Questions

• How do adjacency pairs influence the structure and flow of conversation?
  • Adjacency pairs influence conversation by establishing clear expectations for how turns are taken between speakers. When one person makes a statement or asks a question, it sets up a framework for what the next speaker should respond with. This not only helps maintain coherence in dialogue but also facilitates smooth transitions between topics, allowing for more effective communication.
• Discuss how preference organization relates to adjacency pairs and impacts conversational dynamics.
  • Preference organization is closely tied to adjacency pairs as it dictates which types of responses are deemed more favorable in conversations. For instance, if someone asks a question (the first part of an adjacency pair), a positive answer is generally preferred over a negative one. This preference shapes how participants navigate interactions, potentially leading to adjustments in their responses to align with social expectations.
• Evaluate the role of adjacency pairs in understanding the complexities of conversational implicature within dialogues.
  • Adjacency pairs play a crucial role in revealing the nuances of conversational implicature because they highlight how context influences meaning beyond mere words. When a speaker responds in an expected way to an adjacency pair, it can imply additional meanings or emotions based on shared knowledge. For example, if someone responds to a greeting with enthusiasm, it may convey friendship or warmth beyond just answering. Analyzing these layers within adjacency pairs provides insights into the subtleties of human communication.

Related terms

turn-taking: The process in conversation where speakers alternate in speaking, ensuring that each participant has the opportunity to contribute.

preference organization: The concept that some responses in adjacency pairs are preferred or more socially acceptable than others, affecting how conversations unfold.

conversational implicature: The implied meaning behind a statement in conversation that goes beyond its literal interpretation, often relying on context and shared knowledge.