Discourse Metalanguage P.5

Question 1

Taking the floor

Answer 1

When someone initiates the speech in a conversation/debate, or consciously taking over said conversation/debate when another person is already talking.

Question 2

Holding the floor

Answer 2

To speak to a group of people, often for a long time, without allowing anyone else to speak.

Question 3

Passing the floor

Answer 3

Someone has given up their right to speak at some sort of formal event or gathering.

Question 4

Back-channelling

Answer 4

Feedback given while someone else is talking, to show interest, attention and/or a willingness to keep listening.

Short utterances such as:
- “uh-huh”
- “really!?”
- “definitely”

Question 5

Deictic expression

Answer 5

The use of general words and phrases to refer to a specific time, place, or person in context.

“Have you been in this country long?”
“You should have been here last week.”