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Journal of Language and Social Psychology, Vol. 24, No. 2, 160-181 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/0261927X05275739

Interpretations of Messages

The Influence of Various Forms of Equivocation, Face Concerns, and Sex Differences

Richard Bello

Sam Houston State University

Renee Edwards

Louisiana State University

Equivocation, the use of ambiguity or vagueness, is used to protect face when an interlocutor seeks to avoid a hurtful truth or a deception. This study compared the effects of self and other-face, sex, and several versions of equivocation on perceptions of messages. Participants (n = 354) read a scenario about a public-speaking situation in which a classmate makes a comment about a poor performance. Equivocation, especially that directed at other-face, is judged more polite than unequivocal criticism. Unequivocal criticism is judged as more competent and honest than equivocation. A mixed message is regarded the most positively.

Key Words: message interpretation • equivocation • face • politeness • communication competence


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