Phatic metacommunication in dialogue

the concept of phatic metacommunication in dialogue is examined as a key component of verbal interaction. Based on Roman Jakobson's communication model, the phatic function of language is identified as essential for establishing and maintaining contact between interlocutors. Phatic signals are analyzed at different stages of dialogue: initiating contact, sustaining interaction, and ending communication. Particular attention is given to the role of greetings, turn-taking markers, and politeness strategies in ensuring a smooth conversational flow. Existing approaches to phatic metacommunication are critiqued for their lack of a comprehensive methodology that accounts for both communicative principles and pragmatic factors. A structured approach is proposed to clarify the functions of phatic signals in dialogic contexts, emphasizing their role in achieving mutual understanding, maintaining engagement, and facilitating effective message exchange.

phatic communication, metacommunication, dialogue, communicative function, Roman Jakobson, turn-taking, politeness strategies, verbal interaction, pragmatics, speech acts