Fundamentals of speech culture. Communication culture and speech etiquette
Introduction
Nowadays, communication is one of the main factors of mutual understanding between people, therefore culture speech behavior is important for all people whose activities are, in one way or another, related to communication. By the way a person speaks or writes, one can judge the level of his spiritual development, his internal culture.
Speech culture is a concept that combines mastery of the language norms of oral and written literary language, as well as the ability to use expressive language in different communication conditions.
In addition, in the modern world, conditions have arisen where the demand for a specialist in the labor market and his competitiveness largely depend on the presence of competent speech (both oral and written), the ability to communicate effectively, knowledge of speech influence techniques, and persuasion. The success of any activity depends on how skillfully speech activity is carried out. professional activity.
Thus, the relevance of this topic is beyond doubt.
The purpose of the work is to consider the features of speech culture and its impact on the ethics of communication.
consider the history of the issue;
characterize the concept of “speech culture”;
analyze the features of human speech culture;
identify the process of interaction between speech culture and communication ethics.
1. History of speech culture
communication culture speech psychological
The culture of speech as a special area of linguistics developed gradually. The norms of the Russian language of ancient times were formed in Kievan Rus under the influence of oral poetry and the Church Slavonic language. Ancient handwritten and subsequent printed books preserved and consolidated traditions writing, however, already the code of laws “Russian Truth”, developed orally and written down under Yaroslav the Wise in 1016, reflected living speech.
The first attempts to consciously form the norms of written speech date back to the 18th century, when Russian society realized that the lack of unity in writing made communication difficult and created a lot of inconvenience.
Work by V.K. Trediakovsky’s “Conversation between a foreigner and a Russian about ancient and new spelling” (1748) is the first attempt to substantiate the rules of Russian spelling.
The theoretical normalization of the Russian language is associated with the compilation of the first grammars, rhetoric and dictionaries, with the description for educational purposes of the system of literary, exemplary language, its norms and styles.
M.V. Lomonosov - the creator of the first scientific grammar of the Russian language “Russian Grammar” (1755) and “Rhetoric” (short - 1743 and “lengthy” - 1748) - laid the foundations of the normative grammar and stylistics of the Russian language.
In the 19th century, works on rhetoric by N.F. were published. Koshansky, A.F. Merzlyakova, A.I. Galich, K. Zelenetsky and others.
One of the main tasks of speech culture is the protection of the literary language and its norms. It should be emphasized that such protection is a matter of national importance, since the literary language is precisely what linguistically unites the nation.
One of the most important functions of a literary language is to be the language of the entire nation, to rise above individual local or socially limited linguistic formations. Literary language is what, naturally, along with economic, political and other factors, creates the unity of a nation. Without a developed literary language, it is difficult to imagine a full-fledged nation.
Famous modern linguist M.V. Among the main features of a literary language, Panov names such as the language of culture, the language of the educated part of the people, a deliberately codified language, i.e. such norms that all speakers of a literary language must follow.
Any grammar of the modern Russian literary language, any of its dictionaries is nothing more than its modification. However, the culture of speech begins where language seems to offer a choice for codification, and this choice is far from clear-cut. This indicates that the modern Russian literary language, although it can be considered as the language from Pushkin to the present day, does not remain unchanged. He constantly needs rationing. If you follow the established norms once and for all, then there is a danger that society will simply stop taking them into account and will spontaneously establish its own norms. Spontaneity in such a matter is far from good, therefore constant monitoring of the development and change of norms is one of the main tasks of linguistic science about the culture of speech.
This was well understood by Russian linguists of the pre-revolutionary period, as evidenced by the analysis of the norms of the Russian language in the book by V.I. Chernyshev “Purity and correctness of Russian speech. Experience of Russian stylistic grammar" (1911), which, according to V.V. Vinogradov, is a remarkable phenomenon in Russian philological literature and retains its significance to this day. He proposed a scientifically based view of literary language as a complex interaction of entire categories of synonymous, but at the same time, stylistically heterogeneous grammatical forms and syntactic figures of speech.
Main sources best speech in this work the following are recognized: generally accepted modern usage; works of exemplary Russian writers; the best grammars and grammar studies. The book was awarded the Academy of Sciences Prize.
After 1917, the preservation of the norms of the literary language became especially relevant, since people who did not speak it were involved in public activities. A stream of colloquial, dialect and slang vocabulary poured into the literary language. Naturally, there was a threat of the literary norm being undermined.
However, the concept of “culture of speech” and the closely related concept of “culture of language” emerged only in the 1920s in connection with the emergence of a new Soviet intelligentsia and with the general post-revolutionary directive that the “masses” “master the workers’ and peasants’ (proletarian) culture ", an important part of which was the struggle for the "purity of the Russian language" (usually based on the corresponding statements of Lenin).
The post-war years became a new stage in the development of the culture of speech as a scientific discipline. The largest figure of this period was S.I. Ozhegov, who gained wide fame as the author of the most popular one-volume Dictionary of the Russian Language, which became a reference book for more than one generation of people. In 1948, a book by E.S. was published. Istrina “Norms of the Russian literary language and the culture of speech.”
In the 50-60s, the scientific principles of speech culture were clarified: an objective and normative point of view on language, the distinction between codification (as a normalizing activity) and norms (an objective historical phenomenon). The “Grammar of the Russian Language” of the USSR Academy of Sciences is published (1953-54), issues of the “Dictionary of the Russian Literary Language” are published in 17 volumes, which received the Lenin Prize, and collections “Questions of the Culture of Speech” are periodically published.
In 1952, the Speech Culture Sector of the Russian Language Institute of the USSR Academy of Sciences was created and headed by S.I. Ozhegov, under whose editorship the collections “Issues of the Culture of Speech” were published from 1955 to 1968.
The theoretical works of V.V. are devoted to this concept. Vinogradov 1960s, D.E. Rosenthal and L.I. Skvortsov 1960-1970s; At the same time, attempts appear to distinguish it from the term “culture of language” (which is proposed to be understood, first of all, as the properties of exemplary literary texts).
Speech culture has become an independent discipline since the 70s of the twentieth century: it has its own subject and object of study, goals and objectives, methodology and techniques scientific research material. The following theoretical directions are being developed:
variability of norms;
functionality in normative assessments;
the relationship between extra- and intralinguistic factors;
the place and role of literary standardized elements in the modern Russian language;
changes in norms.
Cultural and speech activity is transformed from “prohibition” into a positive program of linguistic education, the development of linguistic flair and ability in the best possible way use language and its means of expression in accordance with speech tasks and the laws of the functioning of language in society.
The communicative component of speech culture received some development (works by B.N. Golovin, A.N. Vasilyeva, etc.) only in the 60s. 20th century in connection with the needs of teaching speech culture in higher education.
The normalization activities of linguists did not weaken in the 90s. 20th century: works by D.E. Rosenthal, T.G. Vinokur, L.K. Graudina, L.I. Skvortsova, K.S. Gorbachevich, N.A. Eskova, V.L. Vorontsova, V.A. Itskovich, L.P. Krysina, B.S. Schwarzkopf, N.I. Formanovskaya and others.
The communicative component of speech culture is also receiving increasing attention.
A modern approach to the problems of speech culture establishes internal connections between increasing the speech culture of society with the development of national culture; scientifically analyzes the processes occurring in modern speech practice; contributes to the improvement of the modern Russian literary language, taking into account the diverse social functions.
. Characteristics of the concept of “speech culture”
Speech is the activity of communication - expression, influence, communication - through language, a form of existence of consciousness (thoughts, feelings, experiences) for another, serving as a means of communication with him, a form of generalized reflection of reality.
Speech culture is such a set and such an organization of linguistic means that, in a certain communication situation, while observing modern language norms and communication ethics, make it possible to ensure the greatest effect in achieving the set communicative tasks.
Main indicators of speech culture:
vocabulary(offensive (obscene), slang words, dialectic words are excluded).
lexicon(the richer it is, the brighter, more expressive, more varied the speech, the less it tires listeners, the more impressive, memorable and captivating it is);
pronunciation (the norm for modern pronunciation in Russian is the Old Moscow dialect);
grammar ( business speech requires compliance with general rules of grammar);
stylistics (good speech style requires such requirements as the inadmissibility of unnecessary words, correct order words, logic, accuracy, absence of standard, hackneyed expressions).
The normative aspect of speech culture presupposes, first of all, the correctness of speech, i.e. compliance with the norms of the literary language, which are perceived by its speakers as a model.
The linguistic norm is the central concept of speech culture, and the normative aspect of speech culture is considered one of the most important.
This is a necessary but insufficient regulator; the culture of speech cannot be reduced to a list of prohibitions and definitions of “right and wrong.”
The concept of “speech culture” is associated with the patterns and characteristics of the functioning of language, as well as with speech activity in all its diversity. One can cite a large number of texts of varied content, impeccable from the point of view of literary standards, but not achieving the goal. This is ensured by the fact that the norm regulates to a greater extent the purely structural, symbolic, linguistic side of speech, without affecting the most important relations of speech to reality, society, consciousness, and behavior of people.
Speech culture develops the skills of selecting and using linguistic means in the process of verbal communication, helps to form a conscious attitude towards their use in speech practice in accordance with communicative tasks. Selecting the language tools necessary for this purpose - the basis of the communicative aspect of speech culture. As G.O. wrote Vinokur, a famous philologist, a major specialist in the culture of speech: “There are means for every goal, this should be the slogan of a linguistically cultural society.” Therefore, the second important quality of speech culture is communicative expediency - the ability to find an adequate linguistic form in the language system to express specific content in each real situation of speech communication. The choice of linguistic means necessary for a given purpose and in a given situation is the basis of the communicative aspect of speech.
The communicative qualities of speech are, first of all, accuracy of speech, clarity, purity, consistency of presentation, expressiveness, aesthetics and appropriateness. Clarity of wording, skillful use of terms, foreign words, successful use of figurative and expressive means of language, proverbs and sayings, catchwords, phraseological expressions, of course, increase the level of professional communication between people.
The third aspect of speech culture is also closely related to communicative expediency. The rules of speech behavior and ethical standards of speech culture are one of the most important components of professional communication.
Ethical standards of communication mean speech etiquette: speech formulas of greeting, request, question, gratitude, congratulations, etc.; addressing “you” and “you”; choice of full or abbreviated name, form of address, etc.
Communicative expediency as a criterion of speech culture concerns both the form of expression of thought and its content. The ethical aspect of speech culture prescribes knowledge and application of the rules of linguistic behavior in specific situations in such a way as not to humiliate the dignity of the participants in communication. Ethical standards of communication include compliance with speech etiquette. Speech etiquette is a system of means and ways of expressing the attitude of those communicating towards each other.
The ethical component of the culture of speech imposes a strict ban on foul language in the process of communication and other forms that offend the dignity of participants in communication or surrounding people.
Thus, Speech culture is the observance in speech of the prevailing social norms:
norms of literary language (correct pronunciation, formation, construction of sentences, use of words in their accepted value and accepted compatibility). Literary language is the highest form of the national language and the basis of the culture of speech. It serves various spheres of human activity: politics, culture, office work, legislation, verbal art, everyday communication, interethnic communication;
norms of speech behavior, etiquette (say hello, say goodbye, apologize, be polite, do not be rude, do not insult, be tactful);
norms associated with the ability to achieve the greatest effectiveness of one’s speech (rhetorical literacy);
norms associated with the ability to switch from one sphere of communication to another, to take into account who the speech is addressed to and who is present, under what conditions, in what setting and for what purpose the speech is being conducted (style and stylistic norms).
All of the above allows us to accept what was proposed by E.N. Shiryaev’s definition of speech culture: “Speech culture is such a choice and organization of linguistic means that, in a certain communication situation, while observing modern language norms and communication ethics, make it possible to ensure the greatest effect in achieving the set communicative tasks.”
3. Human speech culture
A high level of speech culture is an integral feature of a cultured person. The level of culture of the individual and the entire society is judged by speech.
Human speech culture is an attitude a person’s desire for knowledge about language (and knowledge in general), the desire (or lack thereof) to expand it, the ability (or inability) to use the acquired knowledge .
Speech culture affects not only the process of creating speech (speaking, writing), but also its perception (listening, reading). In order for the structure of speech to acquire the necessary communicative perfection, the author of the speech must possess a set of necessary skills and knowledge; at the same time, in order to obtain these skills and knowledge, you need to have examples of communicatively perfect speech, you need to know its signs and the laws of its construction.
Thus, speech culture reflects the degree of assimilation and compliance with cultural norms in the process of transmitting and perceiving a speech message, applying knowledge that contributes to the effectiveness of this process in situations of everyday communication. In the content aspect, it includes knowledge of perfect speech patterns, knowledge of speech etiquette, knowledge of the psychological foundations of speech communication.
Speech culture presupposes, first of all, correct speech, i.e. compliance with the norms of the literary language, which are perceived by its speakers as a model, therefore the concept of the type of speech culture seems extremely important for current state society and its culture. Types of speech cultures (according to O.B. Sirotinina):
Full-functional (elite) - the speaker uses the capabilities of the language as fully and expediently as possible, depending on the situation and the addressee of the speech, freely moves from one style to another, always complies with all types of norms of speech culture.
Not fully functional - the carrier can not use everything functional styles, but clearly distinguish between two or three styles depending on the situation and their profession, admits more errors than a representative of an elite culture.
Average literary - the speaker is “self-confidently illiterate”: speakers of this type, making a large number of mistakes, do not doubt their knowledge, are confident in the correctness of their speech, never check themselves in dictionaries and even “correct” specialists.
Literary jargon - the speaker deliberately reduces and coarsens speech.
Everyday - the speaker always uses everyday literary speech, without switching from one stylistic register to another depending on the communication situation.
Vernacular - the speaker is not familiar with the stylistic varieties of the language and allows a large number of gross mistakes.
In Russia, the majority of the population are carriers of types of speech culture that occupy different parts of the transition zone between two poles: fully functional and everyday.
In recent years, within the framework of the culture of speech, a special direction has emerged - the linguistics of good speech (meliorative linguistics), associated with the study of the qualities of “good speech”, which, in turn, depend on the communicative qualities of speech. These qualities are identified on the basis of the relationship of speech with such “non-speech structures” as language itself as a device that generates speech, as well as the thinking and consciousness of the speaker, the reality surrounding him, the person who is the addressee of speech, and the conditions of communication. Taking into account these “non-speech structures” determines the following mandatory qualities of good speech: correctness, purity, accuracy, logic, expressiveness, imagery, accessibility, appropriateness.
4. Ethics of speech communication
The culture of speech has a certain influence on the ethics of communication. Ethics prescribes the rules of moral behavior (including communication), etiquette presupposes certain manners of behavior and requires the use of external politeness formulas expressed in specific speech acts. Compliance with etiquette requirements when violating ethical standards is hypocrisy and deception of others. On the other hand, completely ethical behavior that is not accompanied by adherence to etiquette will inevitably make an unpleasant impression and cause people to doubt the moral qualities of the individual. When communicating, first of all, the features of speech etiquette are taken into account. The ethical component of speech culture manifests itself in speech acts - purposeful speech actions, such as expressing a request, question, gratitude, friendliness, congratulations, etc.
Thus, communication ethics, or speech etiquette, requires compliance with certain rules of linguistic behavior in certain situations.
In verbal communication it is also necessary to observe a number of ethical and etiquette standards that are closely related to each other. Speech etiquette begins with compliance with the conditions for successful verbal communication.
Firstly, you must treat your interlocutor with respect and kindness. It is prohibited to offend or insult your interlocutor with your speech, or to express disdain. Direct negative assessments of the communication partner’s personality should be avoided; only specific actions can be assessed, while maintaining the necessary tact. Rude words, a cheeky form of speech, an arrogant tone are unacceptable in intelligent communication. And from a practical point of view, such features of speech behavior are inappropriate, because never contribute to achieving the desired result in communication. Politeness in communication presupposes understanding the situation, taking into account the age, gender, official and social status of the communication partner. These factors determine the degree of formality of communication, the choice of etiquette formulas, and the range of topics suitable for discussion.
Secondly, the speaker is instructed to be modest in self-assessments, not to impose his own opinions, and to avoid being too categorical in speech. Moreover, it is necessary to put the communication partner in the spotlight, show interest in his personality, opinion, and take into account his interest in a particular topic. It is also necessary to take into account the listener’s ability to perceive the meaning of your statements; it is advisable to give him time to rest and concentrate. For this reason, you should avoid too long sentences, it is useful to take short pauses, and use speech formulas to maintain contact: you, of course, know...; you might be interested to know...; as you can see...; note…; It should be noted... and so on.
Speech etiquette is determined by the situation in which communication occurs. Any act of communication has a beginning, a main part and a final part. The main ethical principle of verbal communication - respect for parity - is expressed from greeting to farewell throughout the conversation.
Greetings and addresses set the tone for the entire conversation. If the addressee is unfamiliar to the subject of speech, then communication begins with acquaintance. Moreover, it can occur directly or indirectly. According to the rules of good manners, it is not customary to enter into a conversation with a stranger and introduce yourself. However, there are times when this needs to be done. Etiquette dictates following formulas:
Let me get to know you (you).
Let me get to know you.
Let's get to know each other.
It would be nice to meet you.
The address performs a contact-establishing function and is a means of intimacy, therefore, throughout the entire speech situation, the address should be pronounced repeatedly - this indicates both good feelings towards the interlocutor and attention to his words.
Depending on the social role of the interlocutors, the degree of their closeness, You-communication or You-communication is selected and, accordingly, greetings hello or hello, good afternoon (evening, morning), hello, fireworks, greetings, etc. Important role The communication situation also plays a role.
Etiquette also determines the norm of behavior. It is customary to introduce a man to a woman, a younger person to an older one, and an employee to the boss.
Formal and informal meetings begin with a greeting. In Russian, the main greeting is hello. It goes back to the Old Slavonic verb zdravstvat, which means “to be healthy,” i.e. healthy. In addition, there are greetings indicating the time of the meeting:
Good morning! Good afternoon Good evening!
Communication presupposes the presence of one more component, another component that manifests itself throughout communication, is its integral part, and, at the same time, the norm of use and the form of the term itself have not been finally established. It's about conversion.
From time immemorial, circulation has performed several functions. The main one is to attract the attention of the interlocutor. In addition, the appeal indicates a corresponding sign; it can be expressive and emotionally charged, and contain an assessment. Thus, a distinctive feature of officially accepted appeals in Rus' was a reflection of the social stratification of society, such characteristic feature, as veneration. In Russia, until the twentieth century, the division of people into classes remained: nobles, clergy, commoners, merchants, townspeople, etc. Hence the appeals “ Mr., Madam - to people of privileged groups; "sir", "madam"- for the middle class and the lack of a unified appeal to representatives of the lower class.
In the languages of other civilized countries there were addresses that were used both for a person occupying a high position and for an ordinary citizen: Mr., Mrs., Miss; senor, senora, senorita, etc.
After the October Revolution in Russia, all old ranks and titles were abolished by a special decree. Instead, the addresses “comrade” and “citizen” are becoming widespread. With the growth of the revolutionary movement, the word comrade acquires a socio-political meaning: “a like-minded person fighting for the interests of the people.” In the first years after the revolution, this word became the main address in new Russia. After the Patriotic War, the word comrade gradually begins to emerge from the everyday unofficial address of people to each other.
A problem arises: how to contact a stranger? On the street, in a store, in public transport, the address man, woman, grandfather, father, grandmother, boyfriend, auntie, etc. is increasingly heard. Such appeals are not neutral. They can be perceived by the addressee as disrespect for him, even an insult, unacceptable familiarity. Words man Womanviolate the norm of speech etiquette and indicate the speaker’s lack of culture. In this case, it is preferable to start a conversation without addresses, using etiquette formulas: be kind, be kind, excuse me, forgive. Thus, the problem of commonly used address in an informal setting remains open.
Label formulas. Each language has fixed methods and expressions of the most frequent and socially significant communicative intentions. So, when expressing a request for forgiveness or an apology, it is customary to use a direct, literal form, for example, Sorry).
When expressing a request, it is customary to represent one’s “interests” in an indirect, non-literal statement, softening the expression of one’s interest and leaving the addressee the right to choose an action; For example: Could you go to the store now?; Aren't you going to the store now? When asked How to get there? Where is.? You should also preface your question with a request: Could you say?; You will not say.?
There are etiquette formulas for congratulations: immediately after the address, the reason is indicated, then the wishes, then assurances of the sincerity of feelings, and a signature. Oral forms of some genres colloquial speech also, to a large extent, bear the stamp of ritualization, which is determined not only by speech canons, but also by the “rules” of life, which takes place in a multidimensional, human “dimension.” This applies to such ritualized genres as toasts, gratitude, condolences, congratulations, and invitations. Etiquette formulas, phrases for the occasion are an important part of communicative competence; knowledge of them is an indicator of a high degree of language proficiency.
Euphemization of speech. Maintaining a cultural atmosphere of communication, the desire not to upset the interlocutor, not to offend him indirectly, not. cause an uncomfortable state - all this obliges the speaker, firstly, to choose euphemistic nominations, and secondly, a softening, euphemistic way of expression.
Historically, the language system has developed ways of periphrastic nomination of everything that offends taste and violates cultural stereotypes of communication. These are paraphrases regarding death, sexual relations, physiological functions; for example: he left us, died, passed away; the title of Shahetjanyan’s book “1001 questions about this” about intimate relationships. Mitigating techniques for conducting a conversation are also indirect information, allusions, hints that make it clear to the addressee real reasons similar form of expression. In addition, mitigation of a refusal or reprimand can be realized by the technique of “changing the addressee,” in which a hint is made or the speech situation is projected onto a third participant in the conversation.
In the traditions of Russian speech etiquette, it is forbidden to speak about those present in the third person (he, she, they), thus, all those present find themselves in one “observable” deictic space of the speech situation “I - YOU (YOU) - HERE - NOW.” This shows respect for all participants in communication.
Interruption. Counter remarks. Polite behavior in verbal communication requires listening to the interlocutor’s remarks to the end. However, a high degree of emotionality of the participants in communication, demonstration of their solidarity, agreement, introduction of their assessments “in the course” of the partner’s speech is a common phenomenon in dialogues and polylogues of idle speech genres, stories and stories-memories. According to the observations of researchers, interruptions are typical for men, while women are more correct in conversation. In addition, interrupting the interlocutor is a signal of a non-cooperative strategy. This kind of interruption occurs when there is a loss of communicative interest.
You are communication and You are communication. A peculiarity of the Russian language is the presence in it of two pronouns You and You, which can be perceived as forms of the second person singular (Table 1). In general, the choice is dictated by a complex combination of external circumstances of communication and individual reactions of the interlocutors:
degree of acquaintance between partners ( You- to a friend, You- stranger);
formality of the communication environment ( You- unofficial, You- official);
the nature of the relationship ( You- friendly, “warm”, You- emphatically polite or tense, aloof, “cold”);
equality or inequality of role relationships (by age, position: You- equal and inferior, You- equal and superior).
Table 1 - Selection of form You and you
YOU1 To an unfamiliar, unfamiliar addressee1 To a well-known addressee2 In an official communication setting2 In an informal setting3 With an emphatically polite, restrained attitude towards the addressee3 With a friendly, familiar, intimate relationship to the addressee4 To an equal and senior (by position, age) addressee4 To an equal and junior (by position, age) addressee
The choice of form depends on the social status of the interlocutors, the nature of their relationship, and the official-unofficial environment. So, in an official setting, when several people take part in a conversation, Russian speech etiquette recommends that even with a well-known acquaintance with whom friendly relations have been established and the everyday address is “you,” you should switch to you.
In the Russian language, you-communication in informal speech is widespread. Superficial acquaintance in some cases and distant long-term relationships of old acquaintances in others are shown by the use of the polite “You”. In addition, you-communication demonstrates respect for the participants in the dialogue; So, you-communication is typical for long-time friends who have deep feelings of respect and devotion for each other. More often, you-communication during long-term acquaintance or friendships is observed among women. Men of different social classes are “more often inclined” to You-communication.
It is generally accepted that You communication is always a manifestation of spiritual harmony and spiritual intimacy and that the transition to You communication is an attempt to intimate relationships (compare Pushkin’s lines: “ She replaced the empty You with the heartfelt You, having mentioned..." But during You-communication, the sense of the uniqueness of the individual and the phenomenal nature of interpersonal relationships is often lost.
Parity relationships as the main component of communication do not negate the possibility of choosing You-communication and You-communication depending on the nuances of social roles and psychological distances. The same participants in communication in different situations can use the pronouns “you” and “you” in an informal setting.
Speech taboos are a prohibition on the use of certain words due to historical, cultural, ethical, socio-political or emotional factors. Socio-political taboos are characteristic of speech practice in societies with an authoritarian regime. They may concern the names of some organizations, the mention of some persons, objectionable to the ruling regime(for example, opposition politicians, writers, scientists), individual phenomena of social life that are officially recognized as non-existent in a given society. Cultural and ethical taboos exist in every society. It is clear that obscene language and mention of certain physiological phenomena and body parts are prohibited. Neglect of ethical speech prohibitions is not only a gross violation of etiquette, but also a violation of the law.
The rules of ethics and etiquette also apply to written speech. An important issue in business letter etiquette is the choice of address. For standard letters on formal or minor occasions, the address “ Dear sir Petrov!For a letter to a superior, a letter of invitation or any other letter by important issue it is advisable to use the word dearand call the recipient by name and patronymic. In business documents, it is necessary to skillfully use the capabilities of the grammatical system of the Russian language. In business correspondence, there is a tendency to avoid the pronoun “I”.
Compliments. Culture of criticism in verbal communication. An important component of speech etiquette is a compliment. Said tactfully and at the right time, it lifts the mood of the recipient and sets him up for a positive attitude towards his opponent. A compliment is said at the beginning of a conversation, during a meeting, acquaintance, or during a conversation, when parting. When said tactfully and at the right time, a compliment lifts the mood of the recipient, setting him up for a positive attitude towards the interlocutor, towards his proposals, towards the common cause. A compliment is said at the beginning of a conversation, during a meeting, acquaintance, parting, or during a conversation. A compliment is always nice. Only an insincere or overly enthusiastic compliment is dangerous.
A compliment can relate to appearance, excellent professional abilities, high morality, communication skills, and contain a general positive assessment:
You look good (excellent, wonderful, excellent, magnificent).
You are so (very) charming (smart, resourceful, reasonable, practical).
You are a good (excellent, excellent, excellent) specialist (economist, manager, entrepreneur).
You run (your) business (business, trade, construction) well (excellent, excellent, excellent).
You know how to lead (manage) people well (excellently) and organize them.
It’s a pleasure (good, excellent) to do business (work, cooperate) with you.
A culture of criticism is needed so that critical statements do not spoil the relationship with the interlocutor and allow him to explain his mistake. To do this, one should criticize not the personality and qualities of the interlocutor, but specific errors in his work, shortcomings of his proposals, and inaccuracy of conclusions.
To ensure that criticism does not affect the feelings of the interlocutor, it is advisable to formulate comments in the form of reasoning, drawing attention to the discrepancy between the tasks of the work and the results obtained. It is useful to build a critical discussion of work as a joint search for a solution complex problems.
Criticism of an opponent’s arguments in a dispute should be a comparison of these arguments with those that do not raise doubts among the interlocutor general provisions, reliable facts, experimentally verified conclusions, reliable statistical data.
Criticism of an opponent’s statements should not concern his personal qualities, abilities, or character. Criticism of joint work by one of its participants should contain constructive proposals, criticism of the same work by an outsider can be reduced to pointing out shortcomings, since the development of solutions is the work of specialists, and assessing the state of affairs and the effectiveness of the organization is the right of any citizen.
So, the field of speech culture includes not only the culture of speech itself as a system of means, but also the culture of linguistic communication and communication.
Among the phenomena denoted by the term “culture of speech”, one should distinguish between, firstly, concern for language, its culture and level of communication and, secondly, this level itself, i.e. the development of language or linguistic communication, individual acts and results.
The culture of linguistic communication is distinguished by the following features:
it concerns statements (texts) and their perception and interpretation;
it connects language construction with the content-thematic side and style-forming factors, situation, personalities of the communicators, etc.;
The asymmetry between the culture of speech and the culture of communication lies in the fact that the entire national language as a whole is used in communication.
Thus, the culture of speech acts as part of the broader concept of “culture of communication,” which includes both the culture of thinking and the psychological culture of influence and interaction.
Conclusion
Concluding the work, we note the following.
Speech culture is mastery of the norms of the literary language in its oral and written form, in which the selection and organization of linguistic means is carried out, allowing, in a certain communication situation and subject to communication ethics, to ensure the necessary effect in achieving the set communicative goals.
When characterizing the totality of knowledge, skills and speech abilities of a person, the culture of his speech is defined as follows: this is such a choice and such an organization of linguistic means that, in a certain communication situation, while observing modern language norms and communication ethics, make it possible to ensure the greatest effect in achieving the set communicative tasks.
The definition emphasizes three aspects of speech culture: normative; ethical; communicative.
The ethics of verbal communication prescribes the speaker and listener to create a favorable tone of conversation, which leads to agreement and success of the dialogue.
Speech culture is, first of all, its real signs and properties, the totality and systems of which speak of its communicative perfection:
accuracy of speech (“He who thinks clearly, speaks clearly”);
consistency, mastery of logical reasoning;
cleanliness, i.e. the absence of elements alien to the literary language and rejected by moral norms;
expressiveness - features of the structure of speech that maintain the attention and interest of the listener or reader;
richness - variety of speech, absence of the same signs and chains of signs;
the appropriateness of speech is such a selection, such an organization of language means that make speech consistent with the goals and conditions of communication. Appropriate speech corresponds to the topic of the message, its logical and emotional content, the composition of listeners or readers, informational, educational, aesthetic and other objectives of the speech.
Thus, the correctness of speech and the richness of an individual vocabulary increases the effectiveness of communication and enhances the effectiveness of the spoken word.
Speech activity human is the most complex and most common. It forms the basis of any other human activity: industrial, commercial, scientific and others.
Speech culture is important for everyone who, by the nature of their work, is connected with people, organizes and directs their work, conducts business negotiations, educates, takes care of health, and provides various services to people.
So, speech culture is the most important condition for communication. And mastering the basics of speech culture for every person is not only a necessity, but also an obligation. Communicating culturally, people make the right choice in the direction of achieving communicative goals.
Bibliography
1. Benediktova V.I. ABOUT business ethics and etiquette. - M.: Bustard, 2004.
Vasilyeva D.N. Fundamentals of speech culture. M.: OLMA-PRESS, 2006.
3. Valgina N.S. Modern Russian language / N.S. Valgina, D.E. Rosenthal, M.I. Fomina. - M.: Logos, 2005. - 527 p.
4. Golovin B.N. Fundamentals of speech culture. - M.: UNITY Publishing House, 2008.
Golub I.B., Rosenthal D.E. Secrets of good speech. - M., 2003.
6. Golub I.B. Russian language and culture of speech. Textbook / I.B. Blue - M.: Logos, 2002. - 432 p.
Dantsev A.A. Russian language and speech culture for technical universities / A.A. Dantsev, N.V. Nefedova. - Rostov n/d.: Phoenix, 2004. - 320 p.
Culture of Russian speech and effectiveness of communication / Ed. ed. OK. Graudina, E.N. Shiryaev. - M.: Norma, 2000. - 560 p.
9. Kolesov V.V. A culture of speech is a culture of behavior. - M.: Education, 2008.
10. Krysin L.P. Language in modern society. - M.: Nauka, 1977.
11. Sternin I.A. Russian speech etiquette. - Voronezh, 2007.
Shiryaev E.N. The culture of Russian speech and the effectiveness of communication. - M.: Bustard, 2006.
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Cultural speech today is an important component of success. And not only in business. In the modern world there are many, and all participants in the process will be pleased to hear competent speech, as well as to correctly express their point of view.
Naturally, in different life situations our speech has a different character. At work this is business communication, at home it is simple speech; When speaking in public, we speak completely differently than with close friends, etc. In this article, I would like to tell the readers of MirSovetov about the rules of use and pronunciation of commonly used words and phrases, about what makes our speech cultural in any respect.
Correct pronunciation of sounds
1. Solid and soft pronunciation consonants in borrowed words.In borrowed words, the consonant before “e” can be pronounced either hard or soft. It depends on how long ago the word was borrowed and how often it is used. The consonant before “e” is pronounced softly in the words: peon[e]r, muz[e]y, t[e]rmin, zoo[e]khnik, accord[e]on, d[e]kan. Those. pronounce d[e]kan correctly and d[e]kan incorrectly.
The consonant before “e” is pronounced firmly mainly in book words, scientific terms, such as: ann[e]xia, grot[e]sk, antit[e]za, cott[e]j, d[e]fault, d[e]gradation, at[e]lie. Those. It is correct to pronounce d[e]folt and incorrectly d[e]folt.
You can equally pronounce: bass[e]yn = bass[e]yn, d[e]valuation = d[e]valvation, s[e]ssia = s[e]ssia.
2. Pronunciation of the combination "chn".
Previously, this combination could only be pronounced as [sh] (sunny [sh]ny). But according to modern rules, most words in the Russian language are both written and pronounced “chn”. However, in some words the senior norm is retained, i.e. read [shn]. These words are: boring, horse[sh], empty, eggs, mustard, starling.
In addition, the senior norm is preserved in stable phrases (“old pere[sh]itsa”, “dear friend”) and in female patronymics (Nikiti[sh]a, Ilyin[sh]a).
3. Pronunciation of the combination "zhd".
The word “rain” is pronounced in two equal variants: a long soft “sh” (do [sh’sh’]) and “sht’” (do [sht’]).
4. There are a sufficient number of words in the Russian language in which you just want to add or subtract some sound. For example, many people pronounce the word “incident” as “incident”, which is wrong.
The list of such words in the correct version: incident, precedent, state, leatherette, intriguer, competitive, market situation, grapefruit, escalator, legal adviser, compost, neuropathologist (from “neurosis”), dividends, legitimate, scrupulous, colander, post office, can, folklore , ikebana, furnished, fluorography, agency (from “agent”), slip, mock, handwriting, dishes, borrowed, chronology, porcupine, baking sheet, future, get well (I), keychains, applaud (they), crazy, perturbation.
Correct placement of stress
1.
Monosyllabic nouns male(cake, bow) have, as a rule, a fixed stress in all cases and in the plural. For example: to’rt, to’rts, to’t, to’t, to’t, about to’t. Also: ba’nt, ba’nty, ba’nta, ba’ntu, ba’ntom, oh ba’nte.
In other similar words in the genitive case, the emphasis is transferred to the ending: bandage-bandage', screw-vinta', pancake-pancake', coat of arms', horse-horse', goose-goose', tourniquet-harness', umbrella-umbrella '.
2. In the word “ya'sli” the stress is fixed in all forms of words (“from ya’sli”).
3. Stress on past tense verbs. In the Russian language there is a large group of one- and two-syllable verbs, the emphasis in which moves depending on the form of the word.
Problems with stress placement usually arise when forming past tense forms, such as verbs: slept, waited, began, took, was, called, weaved, lied, took, forked, rotted, lived, cursed, occupied, assigned, took away, added, poured. The rule here is this: in all forms of the past tense the stress is placed on the basis of the word, and in the form female- at the end.
Examples:
Slept: he slept, it slept, she slept, they slept.
He waited: he waited, it waited, she waited, they waited.
Borrowed: he borrowed, it borrowed, she borrowed, they borrowed.
Poured: he poured, it poured, she poured, they poured.
In other one- and two-syllable verbs (vez, led, carried, flowed, lay down, weaved, harnessed, took, etc.), in past tense forms the emphasis in masculine verbs is placed on the basis of the word, and in other forms it goes to the ending . However, there are no difficulties when placing stress in these verbs.
Examples:
Flowed: he flowed, it flowed, she flowed, they flowed.
It was taken: he was taken, it was taken, she was taken, they were taken.
In the third group of verbs, the stress is not transferred anywhere, but in all forms is placed on the basis of the word (read, counted, twisted, spoke, wore, ran, etc.). It is extremely difficult to make a mistake in placing the emphasis here.
Examples:
He ran: he ran, it ran, she ran, they ran.
He counted: he counted, it counted, she counted, they counted.
4. The stress in verbs ending in “-it” is flexible, and usually there are no problems with its placement (for example, the verb “wear”: I wear’, you no’sit, he no’sit, we no’sim, you no'site, they no'syat).
However, there are exceptions - verbs in which in absolutely all forms the emphasis falls on the ending. Here they are: call, deepen, aggravate, turn on, grow, create. For example, in the word “call” in other forms the stress will be placed as follows: I’m calling, you’re calling, he’s calling, we’re calling, you’re calling, they’re calling.
5. The emphasis in verbs with “-ify” is fixed and in any form of the verb falls on “ir”: telegraph, agitate.
Exceptions: bonus (premiruyut, premium), seal (seal, sealed).
6. Sometimes stress in verbs can serve as a means of differentiating the meaning of words, such as: ko'sit (grass) - mow with the eye, ka'tit (pushes) - kati't (rides dashingly), va'lit (forest) - Vali't (it's snowing all the time).
Euphony of speech
As Aristotle noted, “what is written should be easy to pronounce.” For beautiful, expressive speech, the compatibility of sounds and words is very important. Poor sound organization can prevent the listener from correctly perceiving speech. The most natural sounding of Russian speech is determined by the achievement following conditions:uniform alternation of vowels and consonants;
minimal use in speech of combinations of several consonants and difficult to pronounce combinations of sounds;
uniform alternation of long and short words;
calm, smooth intonation.
As an example of euphonious speech, we can cite the lines from S. Yesenin’s poem “Anna Snegina”: “I am walking through an overgrown garden, my face is touched by lilacs. The aged fence is so dear to my flashing glances. Once upon a time, at that gate over there, I was sixteen years old, and a girl in a white cape said to me affectionately: “No!” The following story is also euphonious: “My friend is a philatelist. He started collecting stamps when he was in high school. Now there are about a thousand copies in his collection. Some stamps are very rare and valuable.” All sounds here are pronounced easily, long words alternate with short ones, and the intonation is smooth.
Factors that disrupt the euphony of speech:
the use of several consonants in a row (more than 4): “tlz”, “jr”, “vrzh”, “mgrtch”, etc. (Beatles, Mgrtchan, etc.);
repetition of identical or similar sounds. In this case, the undesirable effect of growling, whistling, hissing, etc. occurs. The repetition of whistling and hissing sounds is especially undesirable:
Instead of a large number of people involved and participial phrases It’s better to build separate sentences:
using several vowels in a row:
the use of several words with the same suffix or ending (especially often seen in business speech):
| Wrong | Right |
| Violation of orders to attend classes | The order on the procedure for attending classes was violated |
| The station provides training in observing animal behavior | The station teaches how to properly observe animal behavior |
| Continuing the study of schoolchildren’s mastery of knowledge is one of the tasks of pedagogy | Continuing research in the field of schoolchildren mastering new knowledge is one of the tasks of pedagogy |
| To perform well, the trainee must demonstrate diligence, knowledge and skills | To perform well, the trainee must try to demonstrate all his knowledge and skills |
| To maintain plants, it is important to create and maintain a number of conditions | Plants must be kept in certain conditions |
accidental rhyme in prose makes speech frivolous:
Speech accessibility for understanding
What the speaker wants to say is always different from what his interlocutor hears. For each of the participants in the communication process, everything said or heard is filled with individual meaning; each “passes” the information through his life experience, personal qualities, situation, mood, etc. Therefore, in order to most fully express your point of view, it is very important to structure your speech in such a way that listeners can be fully imbued with the meaning that you put into it.The rule here is: “Think first, then speak.” The thought must first be formalized in internal speech, and only then translated into external speech, i.e. express. It is necessary to clearly formulate your thoughts, carefully select words and expressions (avoid ambiguity). Examples:
|
Wrong |
Right |
|
The priority task of our organization is to eliminate employees who do not know how to work with program X (the word “eliminate” is used inappropriately, because it means “to destroy, to cease the existence of someone,” which is unlikely to be what the author meant ). |
All employees of our organization must learn to work with program X. |
|
My brother ignores attention potential employers to him (the word “ignores” is not used in its inherent meaning). |
My brother neglects the attention of potential employers. |
|
In this place, raspberry bushes grow (the word “tabernacles” cannot be used in this case, since kusha means “tent, hut, canopy”, in any case not “bushes”). |
There are many raspberry bushes growing in this place. |
|
In this you look very efficient (the word “effective” is not suitable in this case, because it means getting results from the invested costs). |
In this coat you look very impressive (spectacular, i.e. “making an impression”). |
It is very important to correctly orient your speech towards your interlocutor. It is necessary to express your opinion in a language accessible to the listener, try to avoid words that may be incomprehensible to the interlocutor. For example, in a conversation with a colleague, you can use professionalism and special terms without restrictions. At the same time, it is better to refrain from them at home. When talking with young children, we often utter short, simple sentences, and when communicating with like-minded people, our thoughts “spread throughout the tree.”
Ethical speech
No matter how correctly your statements are constructed, they will all be received properly only if your speech complies with ethical standards. Nothing is more valuable than politeness, and being polite is incredibly easy. First of all, you need to treat your interlocutor kindly. Next, build at a level appropriate for a specific situation. In a work environment, formal forms of greeting, farewell, calling “you” and by first name and patronymic are appropriate. When communicating with old acquaintances, naturally, simpler speech forms can be used. According to etiquette, you need to greet a person with the words “Hello!” or “Good... (indicate the time of day: morning, afternoon, evening)!” With good acquaintances, friends, relatives, the words “Hello!”, “Salute!” are appropriate. etc. It is necessary to respond to a greeting in any case, including to people with whom you are unfamiliar.
The form of addressing the interlocutor may be different. Currently, the officially adopted form of address in Russia is “Mr/Madam”. However, due to the fact that in Soviet times These forms of address were used ironically; now they sometimes lead to comical situations.
Friendly address involves the use of the words “friend”, “girlfriend”, “colleague”, “old man”. Between close people it is possible to address each other familiarly (“buddy”, “girlfriend”, “my blue-winged fish”).
During the dating procedure, it is very important to follow the norms of speech etiquette. For example, at work, a manager may introduce a new employee as follows: “Let me introduce you to Vladimir Nikolaevich Petrov, our new employee.” At the same time, it is impolite to clarify: “Vladimir Nikolaevich is the brother of the famous director Pyotr Nikolaevich.”
It is better to contact a stranger without using special forms, but using general words, for example: “Please tell me...”, “Be kind...”, etc.
Naturally, the use of derogatory words, insulting the interlocutor and foul language are strictly prohibited. Conversation in a raised voice and familiar address are also condemned.
Expressiveness of speech
When we speak, we want to be heard. Therefore, the interlocutor must be “interested.” Dryness, monotony, and inexpressiveness are not characteristics of cultural speech. There are several ways to win over your interlocutor, and you can and should use them not only at work, during business meetings, but also at home and among friends:proper name (saying the interlocutor’s name out loud);
mirror of relationships (how we are treated, so are we);
(slight exaggeration of a person’s merits).
A little about the compliment. A compliment begins with the desire to say it and brings mutual benefits. It is unacceptable if a compliment contradicts the facts and also develops into flattery.
The expressiveness of speech depends on the tone of the voice, the speaker’s highlighting of the main thoughts, the ability to emphasize attention with the help of small pauses, the use of rhetorical digressions, examples, and repetitions. It is also important to sometimes give the listener the opportunity to laugh at something. fun fact. Proverbs, sayings, phraseological expressions, and catchwords also help to make speech bright and expressive.
To summarize the above, I would like to express the hope that the tips given will help readers of MirSovetov make their speech more competent and harmonious, more accurately convey their point of view to listeners, and conduct an interesting and meaningful conversation.
The culture of speech is, first of all, the spiritual culture of a person and the level of his general development as an individual; it testifies to the value of the spiritual heritage and cultural assets of humanity.
We can say that the culture of speech is an expression of love and respect for the native language, which is naturally connected with the history of the native country and its spiritual wealth.
And in addition to the main components of cultural speech - literacy and compliance with generally accepted norms of the literary language - such means of language as vocabulary, phonetics and stylistics are also of decisive importance.
Cultural speech and culture of speech
In order for speech to be truly cultural, it must not only be correct, but also rich, which largely depends on a person’s lexical knowledge. To do this, you need to constantly replenish your vocabulary with new words, read works of different stylistic and thematic directions.
It is important to highlight for yourself keywords one topic or another, remember successful and unusual statements and phraseological units. But in order to make the most correct use of your vocabulary and expressions, it is necessary to constantly develop and oral speech, and written.
With this, the direction of your own thoughts changes, which are subsequently formed into words. You must try to find a common language with different people and highlight for yourself different topics for conversation.
The concept of speech culture
After all, the concept of speech culture is associated not only with linguistic abilities, but also with the general culture of the individual, with his aesthetic and psychological perception of the world and people.
Speech culture develops in a person more high level spirituality and nobility, and this concept is a condition not only for an educated and highly developed person, but also a necessity for any cultured and attentive person.
After all, human speech is the most frequently used and acutely necessary method expressing oneself for a person, and making his speech richer and more interesting, a person learns to express himself and his opinion more fully.
Human communication
To communicate with other people, it is extremely important to maintain a culture of speech, which in this case consists of politeness, attentiveness, the ability to support any conversation and support the interlocutor.
It is the culture of speech that makes communication easier and freer, because then it becomes possible to express one’s opinion without offending or offending anyone.
It is also important to note that cultural speech contains not only the spiritual wealth of our ancestors, who created such a wealth of words and expressions, but also the peculiar magic and magic of the traditions and customs of the people to whom the language belongs.
Beautiful, well-chosen words contain power more powerful than any physical strength, and this feature of the language has been tested by time.
The level of speech culture partly reflects a person’s way of life, and to a greater extent – the way of life of entire nations. And it is within our power and capabilities to correctly use the spiritual and cultural heritage speech, which, in spite of everything, continues to develop and enrich itself.
When they speak to people, they should be polite, polite, reasonable,
rather than talking a lot. Then listen and don’t interrupt other people’s speeches, but let everyone speak out and then present your opinion. If a sad thing happens and a sad speech happens, then you should be sad and have regret. On a joyful occasion I will be joyful
This is how an unknown author instructs the youth of Peter the Great’s times "Youth of the Honest Mirror"
Speech etiquette has always existed in one form or another. The culture of communication has ritual, sacred roots. For our ancestors, the word had sacred power. They believed that speech affects people and the world around them. It was believed that only with the help of words can certain events be caused or avoided. Expressions that we now perceive as simple formulas of politeness used to be wishes that, according to the speaker, had quite material power. For example, thank you - “God bless”, “hello” - “be healthy”. Can you imagine how responsibly you need to approach your speech with such a worldview? Even in ancient times, there were prohibitions on certain words and phrases, which we now perceive as swearing, abusive, and we also try not to use.
In a broad sense, speech etiquette enables people to communicate successfully with each other. In this meaning, it is associated with the postulates of information transfer, which were formulated by the Anglo-American researcher Herbert Paul Grice in 1975:
- the message must be truthful and have a basis (quality);
- the message should not be too short or lengthy (quantity);
- the message must be valuable to the recipient (attitude);
- the message must be understandable and not contain unclear words and expressions (method of delivery).
Speech etiquette as a system manifests itself in different levels language:
- at the dictionary level this is special vocabulary, set expressions ( Please, Thank you, I'm sorry, I beg your pardon, Goodbye), accepted forms of address ( comrade, madam, sir);
- at the grammatical level - plural for polite address (for example, the pronoun You), replacing imperative sentences with interrogative ones ( Can you help me?);
- at the stylistic level - cultural speech, literacy, refusal of obscene words, use of euphemisms;
- at the intonation level - depending on the intonation, the same phrase can sound either polite or offensive;
- at the level of correct pronunciation: for example, you should say “ Hello" instead of " Hello";
- at the organizational and communication level: you cannot interfere in someone else’s conversation, interrupt the interlocutor, etc.
Speech etiquette in business communication
Dale Carnegie, author of the world bestseller “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” wrote that a person’s success in financial affairs approximately 15% depend on professionalism and 85% on communication skills. And the master is certainly right. Speech is the most important part of a business image. The ability to use words to convince, win over, and lead is a key skill of a successful person. Let's look at the applied rules of speech etiquette that will help you at work.
Theater begins with a hanger, and the culture of communication begins with a greeting. If the meeting participants do not know each other, they need to introduce themselves to each other. The head of the host party calls himself first, then the chief among the guests. Next they introduce their colleagues. If a large delegation has arrived, it is necessary to prepare a list indicating the full names and positions of all participants.
At a business meeting, the younger one is introduced to the older one, regardless of gender. If you've met your partner before, it's best to introduce yourself again. If someone has not identified themselves, you can ask them to do so. Try to remember names right away so as not to look discourteous later.
It is customary to shake hands as a sign of greeting and agreement at a business meeting. The age-old question: who should give a hand first? Here they are, these people:
- the person to whom you are introduced;
- one who is higher in position and older in age;
- a woman, and she may not participate in the handshake at all, the choice is hers.
General principles
In any place, wherever a person is, it is always customary to politely address the interlocutor. Every day we say hello, thank you, apologize, offer, ask for something, say goodbye. Speech etiquette is the ability to communicate politely with an interlocutor. Using etiquette in everyday communication will help you build good and trusting relationships with people.
Peculiarities
Since ancient times, human communication and human speech have played a huge role in the life and culture of mankind. Speech culture is reflected in the languages of various countries and peoples. Thanks to linguistic traditions, we have an idea of the culture of countries, their national values and worldview.
Human speech is the most important sign by which one can understand the level of development and literacy of a person. Do not underestimate the importance of etiquette in the life of any person, since it is often the connecting element in work and social life.
Speech etiquette implies a set of norms, thanks to which a person understands how to communicate and maintain relationships with other people in different life situations. The rules of etiquette are very diverse; there is no general unified “formula” for communication. Any country is rich in its cultural subtleties of communication.
This type of etiquette interacts very strongly with the practice of communication itself; its components are present in any conversation. If you correctly follow the rules of speech etiquette, then you can competently and clearly convey to a person what you want from him. Mutual understanding and sympathy are also achieved much faster.
Speech etiquette also borders on other humanities - linguistics (as well as its subsections - morphology, lexicology, stylistics, phonetics, phraseology, etymology and others), psychology, and, of course, the cultural characteristics of other countries.
To successfully master the skills of cultural conversation, you should apply the formulas of speech etiquette.
Starter formulas are instilled into the child from childhood. This is what our parents teach us - how to properly greet a person, say goodbye, express gratitude, apologize. As each person grows older, he adopts new features in communication and learns various types speech.
It is important to note that the ability to politely maintain a conversation with an opponent and correctly express your thoughts shows you as a polite interlocutor.
So, etiquette formulas are a set of generally accepted words and expressions that are used in conversation. They are used in three stages of conversation:
- Starting a conversation (greeting). The phrases that are selected for greetings depend on your interlocutor. It is important to take into account his gender, age, social status. There are no rigid frames. The standard greeting is “Hello! " or "Good morning! " Such an appeal is universal and is suitable for everyone - both your friends and family, and your bosses.
- Main part of the conversation. Here the formulas depend on the purpose of the conversation.
- Conclusion. By general rules It is customary to say goodbye or arrange a subsequent meeting. You can use universal options: “Goodbye! " or "All the best."
A little history
As noted above, etiquette is certain rules of behavior that are instilled in a person from childhood. The concept behind this definition is based on cultural values. Compliance with these standards helps build a good relationship with people. Today's etiquette standards were not invented intentionally. Words, phrases and various conversation techniques have been formed over many centuries in the process of communication between people.
The word “etiquette” itself is of Greek origin. It means "order". Subsequently, the word took root firmly in France. It began to be used at the end of the 17th century, during the reign of Louis XIV. The word “Etiquette” denoted a card on which the rules of behavior at the king’s table were indicated.
The rules of speech etiquette were formed in ancient times, when a person was just beginning to learn how to build relationships with his interlocutor. Already in those days, certain norms of behavior began to form that helped to gain understanding and make a favorable impression on the interlocutor.
Norms of correct behavior can be found in the manuscripts of the inhabitants of Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt. In those days, these norms were a kind of ritual with the help of which people could understand that they did not pose a threat to each other and thought “on the same wavelength.”
Functions
The basic purpose of speech etiquette is the formation of communication and contact between groups of people. Compliance with general rules and norms makes the interlocutor more understandable to other people. We understand what to expect from him as we begin to trust the communication skills we are familiar with.
This feature arose in ancient times, when danger lurked everywhere for people. At that time, maintaining the ritual of communication was very important. When the other person, who is also the interlocutor, performed familiar and understandable actions, called the necessary and understandable words, this greatly simplified the interaction, mitigating mistrust.
Now we understand at the genetic level that a person who follows these norms can be trusted. Norms create a favorable atmosphere and have a positive impact on the person with whom the conversation is being conducted.
With the help of etiquette, we demonstrate our respect and deference to our opponent. Etiquette emphasizes a person's status.
In general, we can say that the use of the simplest norms of speech etiquette allows you to avoid the occurrence of many conflict situations.
Kinds
It is important to note that written and oral etiquette are quite different. Written ethics is strictly regulated, has stricter boundaries, and it is important to comply with its norms. Conversational ethics are freer in their manifestation; words and phrases can be replaced with actions, and sometimes omissions of words are allowed. An example is a greeting - instead of the usual “Good afternoon/evening! "You can nod your head slightly or replace it with a slight bow. In some situations this is dictated by ethical rules of conduct.
Etiquette is divided into the following types:
- Business. It is also called official. Normalizes a person’s behavior when he performs his job duties. Characteristic for official documentation, negotiations, public speech. Can also be used for discursive and polemical speech.
- Everyday. He is characterized by great freedom of action. As the name suggests, it is actively used by us in everyday life.
The application of etiquette standards may vary in different settings. For example, you can move from an official setting to an informal one if the address to your interlocutor has changed from the official “You” to the more familiar “You”.
Proper use of etiquette will help improve your communication skills.
Principles
All standards of behavior are initially based on generally accepted moral principles. Elements of speech etiquette were no exception.
The main principle can be characterized by the correct attitude towards the interlocutor. In any conversation, it is important to put yourself in the shoes of your interlocutor. This will help smooth out rough edges and avoid unwanted conflicts.
Language etiquette consists of principles that can be called “basic components”:
- Brevity;
- Relevance;
- Literacy;
- Accuracy.
It is important to select phrases that are suitable for a specific situation, taking into account the person’s status, as well as the degree of your acquaintance with him. The speech should be brief but relevant. It is important not to lose meaning when talking.
You need to treat your interlocutor with respect, showing the necessary amount of respect.
The most fundamental principles of etiquette are kindness and mutual cooperation. It is these principles that give rise to productive and mutually beneficial communication.
General rules
Cultural speech cannot exist without observing the general norms of communication between people:
- When addressing another person, it is important to take into account the gender, social status, and, of course, the age of the interlocutor. Phrases and words you might say to a friend may not be appropriate for a stranger, your boss, or an older person.
- Use of "you" and "you". It is customary to use “you” to address family members, friends, close relatives and some acquaintances. It is also acceptable to address an interlocutor who is younger than you in age. "You" is considered neutral polite treatment to a stranger, a person who has a higher position, to an older generation. Violation of the boundaries between “you” and “you” is considered to be familiar and rude, discourteous.
- Rudeness, contemptuous tone and insults should not be in your speech. If, due to circumstances, it is not possible to treat your interlocutor kindly, then it is better to use a neutral, respectful tone.
- Yawning, showing boredom, and constantly interrupting are considered terribly ugly and disrespectful when communicating with a person.
If words and phrases can be called verbal means of communication, then gestures and facial expressions are non-verbal methods of influencing people. It is important to monitor facial expressions and gestures. Excessive gesticulation is usually unacceptable. Following these simple rules will help you become a good conversationalist.
Various situations
Human behavior in various situations is based on etiquette. So these include:
- Establishing contact (greeting);
- Acquaintance;
- Appeal;
- Advice;
- Offer;
- Expression of gratitude;
- Consent or refusal;
- Congratulation;
- Compliment and so on.
For various situations There are standard speech formulas. Let's take a closer look at some situations.
Making contact
In this case, etiquette formulas are aimed at establishing contact with the interlocutor. This is the greeting of the interlocutor. The most universal and frequently used word is “Hello.” This word has many synonyms: from a simple “Hello” in close relationships to the standard polite “Good day” and “My respects.” The use of greeting synonyms is determined by many factors - the degree of acquaintance, age, proximity of the opponent, and, ultimately, your field of work.
When establishing contact, greeting is important. The words “sorry” or “excuse me” or “can I contact you” can attract a person’s attention. It is worth adding to them an explanatory phrase why you contacted the person: a request, an offer or an introduction.
The situation of address is the most difficult etiquette situation, since it is not always easy to choose the appropriate address to a person.
During times Soviet Union the standard address was the universal word "Comrade". It was used in relation to all people, regardless of their gender. Currently, the title “Mr” or “Madam” is used.
It is considered polite to address your interlocutor using his first and patronymic. The address “Woman” or “Girl”, “Young Man” is inappropriate and rude. When performing official duties, it is allowed to be addressed by the title of the position: “Mr. Deputy Director.”
When addressing a person, you cannot point out any of his personal characteristics(gender, nationality, social status, age, religion).
Ending contact
This stage is important because it will help your interlocutor form the final impression of you. When saying goodbye, you can use standard phrases: “See you,” “Goodbye,” “All the best.” With closer contact or longer acquaintance, you can use an informal farewell in the form of the word “Bye.”
At the final stage of contact, it is reasonable to include gratitude for the time allocated for communication and for the work done. You can express your wishes for further interaction. When ending a conversation, it is important to good impression. In the future, this will help to establish long-term and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Let's also consider the dating situation. It is important to pay attention to handling here. As mentioned above, it is customary to use “You” to address familiar people with whom you have close or friendly relationships. In other cases, it is preferable to use the address “You”.
If you introduce people to each other, then you can use the following phrases: “Let me introduce you,” “Let me introduce you.” The presenting person should give a short general description of the person being represented, for the convenience of the interlocutor. They usually name the last name, first name and patronymic, position and some important detail. Interlocutors who meet each other usually say that they are glad to meet you.
Congratulations and gratitude
A fairly large number of speech formulas are used to express gratitude. This can include the phrases “Thank you”, “Thank you”, “I am very grateful” and so on.
There are also many phrases for congratulations. In addition to the usual “Congratulations,” it is customary to come up with individual congratulations and various holiday poems.
Invitation and proposal
When inviting your interlocutor to various events, it is important to observe certain standards of behavior. The elements of the invitation and offer are somewhat similar; they tend to emphasize the special significance of a person.
Stable phrases for invitation: “We invite you...”, “Please visit...”, “Please come...”. When inviting someone, it is appropriate to indicate that you are waiting for your interlocutor. This can be done using the phrase “We’ll be glad to see you.”
Requests are characterized by the use of stable expressions: “We ask you”, “Could you please”.
Any request or proposal is subject to consent or refusal. Consent is expressed briefly and concisely. It is best to issue a refusal with a mitigating motivation that explains the reason for the refusal.
Condolence, sympathy and apology
There are tragic moments in the life of any person when one has to use speech etiquette when expressing condolences or sympathy. The main rule is that this must be done as tactfully as possible so as not to aggravate the situation.
It is important that your words sound sincere; it is recommended to use encouraging words. When expressing condolences, it is appropriate to offer your help. For example, you could say: “Please accept my sincere condolences regarding... You can count on my help if necessary.”
Compliments and praise
Compliments are one of the important components of any relationship between people. With their help, you can significantly strengthen relationships. But you have to be careful. There is a very thin line between compliments and flattery; they are distinguished only by the degree of exaggeration.
According to general rules of etiquette, compliments should relate directly to the person, and not to things. Let's consider a specific situation. How to compliment a woman in a beautiful dress? According to the general rules of etiquette, it would be wrong to say “This dress suits you so well!” " Correct use of the phrase “You look so good in that dress!” "
A slight rearrangement of words emphasizes the beauty of the person, not the dress.
In today's world, it is very important to use praise. You can praise your interlocutor for his character, for his special skills, for his work, and even for his feelings.
National traits
Speech etiquette is based on generally accepted human principles of morality. The essence of etiquette is identical in many cultures of different countries. This includes literacy, politeness in communication, restraint and the ability to use generally accepted speech formulas that will correspond to a specific situation.
But there are still some cultural differences in the speech etiquette of countries. In Russia, for example, etiquette involves maintaining a conversation, including with strangers (barely familiar). A similar situation can occur in a confined space - an elevator, a train compartment, a bus interior.
In other countries (especially Asian countries - Japan, China, South Korea), people try to avoid talking to strangers. They try not to meet the eyes of the interlocutor, do not pay attention to him, look at the phone. If the conversation cannot be avoided, then they talk about the most abstract and neutral topics (for example, about the weather).
Let's look at the differences in speech etiquette in different countries using Japan as an example. Relations between people in this country are based on traditions and have certain conventions. In this country, any greeting is accompanied by an obligatory bow, which is called “ojigi”.
Interesting relationships between people different ages. If a person is older, then his position in society is higher than the position of the younger interlocutor. This rule is followed even within the family circle. The girl does not address her brother, who is older in age, by name, but uses the phrase “nii-san,” which means “elder brother,” older sister the young man will address himself as “onee-san” (translation: older sister).
If we compare the position of a man and a woman, then the man is the superior person. The same principle applies to father and mother. Although a woman may be the head of the family, her social status is lower.
In a work environment where positions are strictly defined, a person with a lower rank will bow lower to a higher-ranking colleague.
In Japan, a special place is given to greetings, and bows occupy an important place. Residents of Japan bow to other people several times a day. Bowing when greeting helps create a favorable environment for communication. By doing this, you endear your interlocutor to yourself, showing such important respect.
Any words of greeting must be expressed with due respect for the interlocutor. Under no circumstances should manifestations of unceremoniousness and familiarity be allowed. You should not exceed the permitted level of trust in you.
For us, these behavioral features (bows, for example) may seem strange, including from an aesthetic point of view, but it is still worthwhile to respect foreign culture and traditions. Therefore, when talking with a foreigner, you should have at least a small idea of the stylistic communication and etiquette culture of his country. This will be a good basis for further communication with each other.
For the basics of speech etiquette and the rules of conversation, watch the following video.
