THE ROLE OF CULTURAL AND SITUATIONAL CONTEXT IN UNDERSTANDING POLITENESS STRATEGIES IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK

Abstract

This thesis explores how cultural and situational contexts influence the way politeness is expressed and understood in English and Uzbek communication. The study aims to identify similarities and differences in politeness strategies, focusing on speech acts such as requests, refusals, and apologies. Through a comparative analysis of authentic dialogues and interviews, the research highlights how social status, age, and context affect the choice of words and tone in both languages. The findings show that while English speakers often rely on indirectness and softeners to maintain politeness, Uzbek speakers tend to use honorifics and culturally rooted expressions to show respect. The research contributes to the broader understanding of intercultural communication and can be useful for language learners and translators working between English and Uzbek.