Discourse Markers Closing Conversations in American TV Series: A Pragma-conversational Analysis

Abstract

Background: Discourse markers (DMs) are essential linguistic expressions used to structure discourse and manage interpersonal relationships during conversations. Their role in closing conversations, particularly in maintaining politeness and smooth interaction, has been underexplored, especially in the context of American TV series. Aims: This study aims to investigate the use of discourse markers in closing conversations in American TV series. Specifically, it examines the types of DMs used by American speakers to end conversations politely, focusing on their connection to closing strategies, such as making positive comments, offering excuses, and suggesting future interaction. The study also seeks to develop a model for analyzing these markers within pragma-conversational analysis. Methods: The research adopts a pragma-conversational analysis framework to examine the use of DMs in closing conversations. The study analyzes twenty conversations randomly selected from the first season of the American TV series Firefly Lane. The data is categorized into implicit and explicit DMs, and the relationships between these markers and closing strategies are explored. Result: The study finds that implicit DMs, such as “thank you,” “anyway,” and “great,” are associated with positive politeness strategies, while explicit DMs, such as “goodbye” and “bye,” are linked to negative politeness. The research also highlights the dominance of implicit markers in maintaining the smooth flow of conversation, especially in formal contexts. Implication: his study contributes to our understanding of the pragmatics of conversation closure, showing how discourse markers facilitate polite interactions. The findings suggest that the appropriate use of DMs enhances relational harmony in both media discourse and everyday communication. The research also provides insights into how media representations of conversation reflect broader social norms related to politeness and interaction.