Observational Study of Im/politeness in Hizaji and South East Communities

Abstract

This study identifies and brings light to how people express themselves and interact during mealtime. Furthermore, this study explains and understands linguistic variations and diversity in communities that differ socially and geographically. The researcher has collected selected spoken data from various scenes of welcoming guests at home during a meal and offering food in Jeddah community, and some other data from South East Asian neighbors who have lived a long time in Saudi Arabia and know a lot about the culture and traditions. The methodology used is a qualitative observational participant research method in which the researcher has intervened in the environment. The researcher has also used contextual analysis that focuses on the role of the group context on the actions and attitudes of individuals. It is found out that through ‘conversational routines’ people understand better and tolerates each other’s words and attitudes. By this, they can have genuine acceptance of their shortcomings. Those actions may include: improving relationships with others, having time to listen, showing empathy with others, being candid, forthright no matter what it takes, being honest and sincere, and being able to develop an empowered and positive attitude. Keywords: Hospitality, im/politeness, impoliteness superstrategies, offer, politeness superstrategies.