Robin Lakoff and the Deficit Model Flashcards
What are the 5 main features of women’s language according to Lakoff?
- Use of hedges
- Use of super-polite forms and intensifiers
- Tone and pitch
- Using implication rather than direct questioning
- Avoiding taboo language
Why do women use hedges?
They are verbal utterances that reduce the force of a statement. This means that their point is softens and that they don’t come across as rude.
Give an example of a hedge.
“you know,” “kinda”
Why do women use intensifiers?
To emphasise how much they agree with a statement.
Give an example of an intensifier.
“so,” “very”
What is the significance of women changing their tone and pitch?
Deeper voices are considered as masculine and males are associated with authority. So, if women want to be listened to, they will lower the pitch of their voice.
Provide a real-life example of this.
Former PM Margaret Thatcher had a vocal coach to change the way she spoke - a lower pitch which made people listen to her.
Why do women use implication?
By implying something rather than giving a direct command, women come across as more polite.
Give an example of implication.
“It’s quite cold in here” rather than “Close the window.”
Why do women avoid using taboo language?
Taboo language is mainly regarded as a masculine form of language, so it is frowned upon when women swear.
What are the 4 different types of tags according to Holmes?
- Softening tags
- Challenging tags
- Facilitative tags
- Epistemic modal tags
What is a softening tag?
These tags weaken the force of a command, usually at the end of a sentence.
Provide an example of a softening tag.
“will you?”
What is a challenging tag?
A tag question that sets a challenge.
Provide an example of a challenging tag.
“weren’t you?”
