Cambridge Grammar of English Hardback with cd-rom a comprehensive Guide

POLITENESS

423

Many of the examples of speech acts in sections 413–421 have displayed aspects of

politeness and indirectness (e.g. would you mind … -ing), while others are more

forceful and direct (e.g. imperatives). 

Politeness serves to protect the self-esteem and dignity of the speaker and

listener, and to prevent speakers imposing on listeners or forcing them to act

against their will. It is an important aspect of interpersonal meaning, and enables

communication to proceed harmoniously.

Modal verbs often hedge or soften the force of a speech act which may threaten

the listener’s dignity or self-esteem. Past forms such as could instead of can, or

would

instead of will, or might instead of may, or wanted instead of want, can

also soften speech acts and contribute to politeness. In sections 423a–423e we

summarise the use of tense and aspect for politeness and also consider some other

forms which soften or hedge speech acts.