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Politeness Strategies Spoken English – Quiz 1
Politeness Strategies Spoken English Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the understanding of key concepts in politeness theory, including negative and positive politeness strategies, polite request formulations, and softening techniques. It also assesses skills such as identifying appropriate social interactions and language use for different contexts.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
The speaker can say something to lessen the possible threat. This is called a face threatening act.
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A face-threatening act refers to a situation where a speaker's words might cause loss of face, respect, or dignity for the listener. To lessen this threat and maintain politeness, speakers often use various strategies such as compliments, indirect speech acts, or euphemisms.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Face-threatening acts are not about saying something to lessen threats; they are about the potential for causing loss of face.
Option B:
Correct. The statement is false because a face-threatening act does not involve lessening the threat but rather avoiding it through politeness strategies.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option suggests all options are correct, which is not true based on the explanation.
Option D:
Incorrect. None of the other options accurately describe a face-threatening act in terms of lessening threats.
2.
The bald on-record strategy attempts to minimize the threat to the hearer's face.
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The bald on-record strategy involves directly stating information without any politeness markers, which can sometimes be perceived as impolite or rude to the hearer's face. Therefore, it does not aim to minimize the threat to the hearer’s face.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect because bald on-record strategy does not focus on minimizing threats to the hearer's face.
Option B:
Correct as stated, bald on-record strategy is not designed to protect the hearer’s face but rather to convey information directly and bluntly.
Option C:
Incorrect since only one option can be correct in this context.
Option D:
Incorrect because there is a correct answer among the options provided.
3.
.... in an interaction can be defined to show awareness of another person's face.
A) Positivity.
B) Negativity.
C) Carefulness.
D) Politeness.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Politeness strategies in spoken English often involve showing awareness and respect towards others, which can be demonstrated through various verbal and non-verbal cues during interactions. One such strategy is acknowledging another person's presence and showing interest in their appearance or actions, which aligns with the concept of being aware of someone’s face.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Positivity - While positivity can be a component of politeness, it does not specifically address awareness of another person's face.
Option B:
Negativity - This is the opposite of what polite behavior entails and thus cannot be correct.
Option C:
Carefulness - Although carefulness can contribute to politeness, it is too broad a term and does not specifically relate to awareness of someone's face.
Option D:
Politeness - This option correctly identifies the strategy that involves showing awareness of another person’s face as part of polite behavior in interactions.
4.
How to express your politeness?
A) Let me go to the toilet!.
B) I can't bear it anymore.
C) May I go to the toilet, please?.
D) I want to go to the toilet.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C, "May I go to the toilet, please?", is the correct answer because it uses a formal and polite expression that seeks permission in English. This phrase demonstrates respect and consideration for others, which is essential in spoken English.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option lacks politeness and formality.
Option B:
This statement expresses frustration rather than seeking permission politely.
Option C:
As mentioned, this is the most polite way to request permission in English.
Option D:
While direct, it lacks the formal and polite tone required in many contexts.
5.
Read the conversation below. Then answer questions number 14-15Mutma:Excuse me., Miss. Anything can I do for you?Ms. Eliza:Yes, Mutma. What's the matter?Mutma:Yes, please. May I borrow your dictionary? I need to look up a new word.Ms. Eliza:Sure. Here you are.Mutma:Thank you, Miss. I'll return it as soon as possible.Ms. Eliza:No problem.What is the dialog about?
A) Returning a book.
B) Lending a book.
C) Borrowing a dictionary.
D) Learning a new word.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The dialog is about Mutma borrowing a dictionary from Ms. Eliza to look up a new word. This aligns with Option C: Borrowing a dictionary.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Returning a book - Incorrect, as no book is mentioned being returned.
Option B:
Lending a book - Incorrect, as the dictionary is not a book and it's Mutma borrowing from Eliza, not lending to her.
Option C:
Borrowing a dictionary - Correct, as this accurately describes the interaction between Mutma and Ms. Eliza.
Option D:
Learning a new word - While learning is part of the context, it's not the main focus of their conversation.
6.
Say ..... to the people.
A) Nice to meet you.
B) Bye.
C) Hello.
D) Greet.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C) Hello is the correct answer because it is a polite and common way to greet people in spoken English. It sets a friendly tone for further conversation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Nice to meet you is more formal and typically used when meeting someone for the first time, making it less appropriate as a general greeting.
Option B:
Bye is used to say goodbye, not to greet people. It would be inappropriate here.
Option D:
Greet is a verb and does not directly address the task of saying something to people; it describes an action rather than a spoken greeting.
7.
This is the way you send message to your teacher politely.
A) Would you mind telling me the answer key, Sir?.
B) Will you tell me the answer key?.
C) Please, tell me the answer key!.
D) Can you tell me the answer key, SIr?.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A is correct because it uses a polite expression "Would you mind" which is a common and respectful way to ask for something in English. This phrase softens the request, making it more courteous and less direct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Uses "Would you mind," which is polite and shows consideration.
Option B:
Is straightforward but lacks politeness.
Option C:
Is too forceful, lacking the courtesy of a polite request.
Option D:
While it includes "Sir," it is less formal than Option A due to the missing "Would you mind."
8.
I ..... to speak to the manager.
A) Would liked.
B) Would like.
C) Would likes.
D) Will likes.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
B) Would like.
This option uses the modal verb "would" to express a polite request, which is appropriate for speaking to a manager. The phrase "Would like" is commonly used in formal or polite speech to make requests or express desires.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect as it uses 'liked' instead of the modal verb.
Option B:
Correct for its use of "would like" to politely request a conversation with the manager.
Option C:
Incorrect because it uses 'likes' which is not in line with polite speech structure.
Option D:
Incorrect as it uses 'will likes,' which is grammatically incorrect and informal for this context.
9.
The concept of face, as discussed in politeness theory, refers to:
A) A specific type of conversational implicature.
B) Physical appearance during a conversation.
C) An individual's public self-image in communication.
D) Facial expressions indicating discomfort.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The concept of face, as discussed in politeness theory, refers to an individual's public self-image in communication (Option C). This idea is central to understanding how people maintain their social standing and reputation through interactions, often by using polite language or behaviors.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Not related; face concerns social image not conversational implicature.
Option B:
Incorrect; physical appearance is unrelated to the concept of face in politeness theory.
Option C:
Correct. Face involves how individuals present themselves publicly through communication, maintaining or enhancing their self-image and social status.
Option D:
Facial expressions are not central to the concept of face in politeness theory; they relate more to emotional states rather than public image.
10.
Do-not-perform-FTAs strategy is often observed in a conversation
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Do-not-perform-FTAs (Favorable Treatment Agreements) strategy is not a commonly observed conversational politeness strategy in English. FTAs are more related to business and trade agreements rather than spoken English politeness strategies, which typically involve techniques like complimenting, apologizing, or using softeners.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect as the statement is not true.
Option B:
Correct. The claim that do-not-perform-FTAs strategy is often observed in a conversation is false.
Option C:
Incorrect since only one option can be correct.
Option D:
Incorrect as there are valid options available.
11.
This opinion is absolutely useless. Please get out of here.
A) Impolite way of disagreeing.
B) Polite way of giving opinion.
C) Polite way of disagreeing.
D) Impolite way of giving opinion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The statement "This opinion is absolutely useless. Please get out of here." is considered impolite because it directly dismisses someone's opinion and uses a harsh command ("Please get out of here") that can be seen as rude or aggressive in spoken English.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The statement is indeed an impolite way of disagreeing.
Option B:
Incorrect. It is not a polite way to give one's opinion.
Option C:
Incorrect. It is not a polite way to disagree.
Option D:
Incorrect. It is an impolite way of giving one's opinion, not just disagreeing.
12.
You want to know what I think? Let me tell you what I think.
A) Polite way of disagreeing.
B) Impolite way of giving opinion.
C) Impolite way of disagreeing.
D) Polite way of giving an opinion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The statement "You want to know what I think? Let me tell you what I think." is a polite way of giving an opinion because it acknowledges the other person's interest and proceeds to share one’s thoughts in a straightforward manner without being abrupt or disrespectful.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The statement does not involve disagreeing, but rather sharing an opinion politely.
Option B:
Correct. This is the claimed correct answer as it accurately describes the statement's manner of giving an opinion in a polite way.
Option C:
Incorrect. The statement is not impolite; it is courteous and direct.
Option D:
Incorrect. While the statement does give an opinion, it is done so politely rather than being abrupt or rude.
13.
What kind of politeness strategies does question "Excuse me, could you give me a pink dress?" belong to?
A) Bald on-record.
B) Off-record.
C) Positive politeness.
D) Negative politeness.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The question "Excuse me, could you give me a pink dress?" employs an off-record strategy because it indirectly requests the favor by using polite expressions ("Excuse me," "could you") rather than directly ordering or demanding. This approach is characteristic of negative politeness, where the speaker seeks to minimize any imposition on the listener.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Bald on-record refers to direct and straightforward communication without any polite expressions.
Option B:
Off-record involves indirect requests through polite language but does not fit here as it is more about minimizing imposition rather than being off-record in a different sense.
Option C:
Positive politeness focuses on building a positive relationship with the listener, which is not the case here.
Option D:
Correct. Negative politeness involves indirect requests to avoid imposing on others.
14.
What isn't included in negative politeness strategy?
A) Using family terms.
B) Presenting opinions.
C) Questioning.
D) Hedging.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Negative politeness strategy focuses on minimizing imposition and expressing respect for the other person's freedom to act. Using family terms (Option A) is not typically associated with negative politeness as it can be seen as informal or familiar, rather than polite in formal situations.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Not included in negative politeness strategy; using family terms may seem too casual.
Option B:
Included; presenting opinions carefully can show consideration for the other person's feelings and space.
Option C:
Included; questioning can be done politely to avoid imposing on others' time or decisions.
Option D:
Included; hedging can soften statements, making them less direct and more considerate.
15.
What is one way to show respect in formal situations?
A) Using slang words.
B) Speaking loudly.
C) Ignoring the listener.
D) Using polite phrases.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Using polite phrases is a key strategy in showing respect during formal situations. Polite language helps maintain a courteous and respectful atmosphere, which is essential for effective communication and maintaining positive social interactions.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Using slang words can be informal and may not convey the appropriate level of respect in formal settings.
Option B:
Speaking loudly might indicate disrespect or a lack of consideration for others' comfort levels, especially in quiet environments like libraries or meetings.
Option C:
Ignoring the listener is a sign of disrespect and can harm relationships and communication effectiveness.
Option D:
Using polite phrases such as "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" demonstrates respect and consideration for others, making interactions smoother and more pleasant.
16.
The most direct approach, using imperative forms such as 'give me a pen', is known as .....
A) Off record.
B) Bald on record.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The most direct approach, using imperative forms such as 'give me a pen', is known as "Bald on record." This term refers to straightforward and unpolished language without any politeness strategies.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Off record - Incorrect. This term does not relate to directness in speech.
Option B:
Bald on record - Correct. Direct, unadorned imperative forms fall under this category.
Option C:
All the above - Incorrect. Not all options are correct.
Option D:
None of the above - Incorrect. One option is correct.
17.
What is a 'hedge' in the context of politeness?
A) A way to make statements softer.
B) A formal title.
C) A direct command.
D) A type of plant.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A 'hedge' in the context of politeness is a way to make statements softer by adding words that express uncertainty, possibility, or vagueness. This technique helps speakers avoid sounding too assertive or direct, which can be seen as impolite in many cultures.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Hedges soften statements to show politeness.
Option B:
Incorrect. Formal titles are not related to making statements softer for politeness.
Option C:
Incorrect. Direct commands do not involve softening or expressing uncertainty.
Option D:
Incorrect. Hedges are linguistic strategies, not types of plants.
18.
Do you really think like that?
A) Polite way of disagreeing.
B) Impolite way of giving opinjon.
C) Impolite way of disagreeing.
D) Polite way of giving opinion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Do you really think like that?" is considered impolite when used to disagree with someone's opinion. It can be perceived as confrontational and disrespectful, as it challenges the other person’s thoughts directly without tact or consideration for their feelings.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Polite way of disagreeing - Incorrect. This phrase is not polite.
Option B:
Impolite way of giving opinion - Incorrect. The phrase does not give an opinion, but rather questions the other person's opinion.
Option C:
Impolite way of disagreeing - Correct. This accurately describes the phrase as it directly challenges someone’s thoughts without tact.
Option D:
Polite way of giving opinion - Incorrect. The phrase does not give an opinion, but questions another's opinion.
19.
We say "Please" when we are asking for help.
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Please" is a polite expression used to make a request, which aligns with the statement that it is said when asking for help. This usage reflects common politeness strategies in spoken English where "please" softens requests and shows consideration towards others.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Please" is indeed used to make polite requests, including those for help.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Please" is not typically used in a rude or impolite manner when asking for help.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option suggests all options are correct, which is false since only A is accurate.
Option D:
Incorrect. None of the other options accurately describe the use of "please" in this context.
20.
What factors decide the degree of politeness in interaction?
A) Power, Distance, Ranking of imposition.
B) Age, Distance, Ranking of imposition.
C) Power, Status, Ranking of imposition.
D) Power, Distance, Ranking of status.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is Option A: Power, Distance, Ranking of imposition. These factors are crucial in determining the degree of politeness in spoken English interactions. Power refers to the relative authority or influence between interlocutors; distance pertains to physical and social proximity which can affect how one addresses another; ranking of imposition involves the perceived level of request's intrusiveness.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Includes all key factors: Power, Distance, Ranking of imposition.
Option B:
Incorrect. Missing 'Power' and includes 'Age' which is not a primary factor in politeness strategies.
Option C:
Incorrect. Replaces 'Power' with 'Status', but 'Status' is less precise than 'Power' for this context.
Option D:
Incorrect. Includes 'Distance' and 'Ranking of status' instead of the correct 'imposition'. 'Status' is also not as specific as 'Power'.
21.
..... means the public self-image of a person.
A) Politeness.
B) Face.
C) Interaction.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The term "Face" in the context of social psychology and communication refers to the public self-image or dignity that a person seeks to maintain in front of others. It encompasses both positive face (desire for respect) and negative face (desire not to be constrained by others). This concept is crucial when discussing politeness strategies in spoken English.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Politeness - While related, it does not specifically refer to the public self-image.
Option B:
Face - Correct. It directly relates to the public self-image a person tries to maintain in social interactions.
Option C:
Interaction - This is broader and does not specifically denote the concept of face.
Option D:
None of the above - Incorrect as "Face" is the correct term.
22.
A ..... leads the requester to appeal to a common goal, and even friendship, via expressions.
A) Positive politeness strategy.
B) Negative politeness strategy.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A positive politeness strategy involves using expressions that seek to build a connection and express consideration for the other person's feelings, often by appealing to shared goals or values. This approach is designed to maintain harmony and establish a friendly relationship.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Positive politeness strategies use expressions that appeal to common goals and friendship.
Option B:
Incorrect. Negative politeness strategies focus on minimizing imposition rather than building connections or appealing to shared goals.
Option C:
Incorrect. Only positive politeness fits the description given in the question.
Option D:
Incorrect. The correct answer is provided by Option A.
23.
Which of these is a positive politeness strategy?
A) Being indirect.
B) Using a modal verb.
C) Giving a compliment.
D) Apologising.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Giving a compliment is a positive politeness strategy because it directly acknowledges and appreciates the other person, enhancing their social status and creating a positive interaction.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Being indirect can be seen as a negative politeness strategy since it often involves avoiding direct confrontation or offense but may not always enhance the social status of the addressee.
Option B:
Using a modal verb is neutral in terms of politeness; its effect depends on context and how it's used, but it doesn't inherently increase positive social status.
Option C:
Giving a compliment directly increases the social status of the addressee, making this a clear example of a positive politeness strategy.
Option D:
Apologising is generally considered a negative politeness strategy as it often involves acknowledging one's own mistake or fault to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.
24.
Typically expressed via questions, even such that seem to ask for permission to ask a question.
A) Negative politeness strategy.
B) Face wants.
C) Positive face.
D) Positive politeness strategy.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Typically expressed via questions, even such that seem to ask for permission to ask a question, is characteristic of negative politeness strategy. This approach involves avoiding imposition and minimizing the other person's loss of face by seeking agreement or permission before making a request.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Negative politeness strategy involves indirect requests and seeking approval to ask questions.
Option B:
Incorrect. Face wants are more about the desire for others to see you in a positive light, not specifically related to asking permission to ask questions.
Option C:
Incorrect. Positive face refers to the desire to be seen as good or well-liked, unrelated to the strategy of seeking permission before asking a question.
Option D:
Incorrect. Positive politeness strategy involves direct requests and showing solidarity with the addressee, not seeking permission first.
25.
Positive shows ..... and emphasizes that both speakers want the same thing or have common goal.
A) Deference.
B) Solidarity.
C) Deferance and solidarity.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Solidarity refers to a shared sense of unity and cooperation between individuals, which is accurately described by the statement that both speakers want the same thing or have a common goal. This aligns with how positive politeness strategies are used in spoken English to build mutual understanding and agreement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Deference focuses on showing respect towards others, which does not necessarily imply shared goals.
Option B:
Solidarity is correct as it describes the shared goal or common purpose between speakers.
Option C:
This option repeats "Deferance" (likely a typo for Deference) and includes Solidarity, making it incorrect due to the inclusion of an unrelated term.
Option D:
None of the above is incorrect since Option B correctly identifies solidarity as the appropriate answer.
26.
Which is the least polite?
A) Would you bring me my change?.
B) Please, give me my change.
C) Give me my change.
D) Would you please bring me my change?.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C) "Give me my change." is the least polite because it lacks any form of request or consideration for the other person's feelings, making it a direct and potentially rude command.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option uses a question format which implies politeness by seeking permission.
Option B:
The use of "Please" makes this request polite and considerate.
Option C:
As mentioned, it is direct without any formality or courtesy.
Option D:
This option uses both a question format and "Would you please," which are more polite than a simple command.
27.
Off record expression is a statement that is directly addressed to the other.
A) TRUE.
B) FALSE.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
An off-record expression is not a statement directly addressed to the other person, but rather an indirect way of conveying politeness or avoiding direct confrontation. This aligns with the concept that such expressions are often used to soften the impact of a message without making it explicit.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect as off-record expressions are not directly addressed.
Option B:
Correct, as stated in the explanation.
Option C:
Not applicable since only one correct answer is provided.
Option D:
Not applicable given the single correct answer identified.
28.
What kind of politeness strategies does question "How about letting me use your car?" belong to?
A) Negative politeness.
B) Off-record.
C) Bald on-record.
D) Positive politeness.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The question "How about letting me use your car?" is an example of positive politeness because it seeks agreement and cooperation from the other person by framing the request in a friendly manner, which aligns with the principle of being considerate towards others' feelings.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Negative politeness involves minimizing imposition on others. This question does not minimize imposition but seeks agreement.
Option B:
Off-record strategies are indirect and often involve hints or suggestions. The question is direct in its request for permission.
Option C:
Bald on-record strategies are straightforward and do not seek to be polite. This question uses a polite phrasing.
Option D:
Positive politeness involves showing consideration towards the other person's feelings, which this question does by suggesting an activity that benefits both parties.
29.
Amount of imposition, degree of friendliness, often negotiated during an interaction.
A) Internal factors.
B) External factors.
C) Negative face.
D) Deference strategy.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The amount of imposition and degree of friendliness in an interaction are often negotiated through politeness strategies, which fall under the broader category of external factors. These factors involve how individuals adjust their speech to be more or less polite based on social context and relationship between interlocutors.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Internal factors refer to personal characteristics like personality traits that influence behavior, not negotiation in interactions.
Option B:
Correct. External factors include the situational aspects of an interaction where politeness strategies are negotiated.
Option C:
Negative face refers to the desire to avoid imposition, but it is a specific aspect rather than encompassing the negotiation process.
Option D:
Demeference strategy involves reducing one's status or importance in relation to others, not directly related to the negotiation of politeness.
30.
It's ..... I can.
A) Likely.
B) Unlikely.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "It's..... I can." is an incomplete statement that requires a filler word such as "unbelievable" to make it grammatically correct and meaningful in the context of expressing surprise or disbelief, which aligns with the concept of politeness strategies in spoken English. Therefore, the claimed correct answer B) Unlikely is appropriate because the sentence fragment does not complete the thought in a way that would be considered polite or natural in conversation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Likely - Incorrect as it doesn't fit the context of the incomplete statement.
Option B:
Unlikely - Correct, as the sentence fragment is incomplete and needs a filler word to be meaningful.
Option C:
All the above - Incorrect as only one option fits the context.
Option D:
None of the above - Incorrect as Option B is correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are politeness strategies in spoken English?
Politeness strategies in spoken English refer to the ways speakers use language to show respect and maintain social harmony. These include both direct and indirect methods, such as using polite request formulas or softening statements.
How do negative politeness strategies differ from positive ones?
Negative politeness strategies focus on avoiding imposition and showing consideration, often by apologizing or expressing regret. Positive politeness strategies, on the other hand, emphasize inclusion and solidarity, using terms like "mate" or "buddy."
Why are politeness strategies important in spoken English?
Politeness strategies are crucial in spoken English as they help maintain social relationships and ensure smooth communication. They play a key role in both formal and informal interactions, enhancing mutual respect and understanding.
Can you give an example of a polite request strategy?
Certainly! A polite request might be phrased as "Could you please pass the salt?" instead of simply saying "Pass the salt!" This softer approach shows consideration and respect for the other person's feelings.
How do direct speech strategies fit into politeness in spoken English?
Direct speech strategies can still be polite by using tactful and considerate language. For example, saying "I think you might want to check this again" is more polite than a blunt "You're wrong."