The Priority Structure behind Overlap of Multi-Person Conversation

Abstract

This article explores the priority structure underlying overlapping speech in multi-person conversations. While most research on overlapping talk has focused on resolution and management, there remains a gap in understanding multi-party conversations. Drawing on a self-collected corpus of dialogue materials, the author analyzes existing data to examine the influence of underlying priority structures on overlapping phenomena. By delving into the observable implicit communicative structure and regular characteristics, this study sheds light on the prioritization dynamics in multi-person conversations. The findings contribute to conversation analysis research and enhance our comprehension of the complexities involved in managing overlaps in communication.