Lesson 13 Title: Cross-Cultural Communication and Pragmatics
Subtitle: Lesson 13
Presented by: Fatima
Contact Information: blackboarder1@gmail.com

Cross-Cultural Communication and Pragmatics

Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of cross-cultural communication and pragmatics.

These concepts are crucial for effective communication, especially in a globalized world where you may interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Cross-cultural communication refers to the process of exchanging information between individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

It involves understanding how cultural norms, values, and expectations shape the way people communicate.

Differences in communication styles can lead to misunderstandings, so it’s essential to be aware of these cultural factors.

Key Points

Verbal Communication:
Differences in language, tone, and directness.

Non-Verbal Communication:
Variations in body language, gestures, and eye contact.

Condense the Information:
Write a concise version of the text, using your own words.

Contextual Factors:
High-context vs. low-context cultures, where the degree of reliance on explicit communication varies.

Pragmatics is the study of how context influences the way language is used and understood.

It goes beyond the literal meaning of words to consider how meaning is constructed in different situations.

Pragmatics helps us interpret things like sarcasm, politeness, and indirect requests.

Key Concepts

Speech Acts:
Actions performed through language, such as requesting, apologizing, or commanding.

Politeness Strategies:
Ways to express politeness, such as using indirect language or softening commands.

Contextual Meaning:
How the meaning of a statement can change depending on the situation or the relationship between speakers.

Some cultures value direct communication, where people say exactly what they mean, while others prefer indirect communication, where meaning is often implied rather than explicitly stated.

Examples

Direct Communication:
(Low-Context Cultures)
Examples include the United States and Germany, where clarity and explicitness are valued.

Indirect Communication :
(High-Context Cultures)
Examples include Japan and India, where meaning is often conveyed through context, non-verbal cues, and what is left unsaid.

Identifying Cultural Communication Styles

Identify which scenario reflects direct communication and which reflects indirect communication.

Scenario 1:
In a meeting, a Japanese colleague says
◦ That might be difficult
in response to a proposed idea.

Scenario 2:
An American manager says
◦ We need to cut costs by 10% starting next month.

Interpreting Pragmatic Meaning

Interpret the speaker’s intent in each context.

Statement:
Could you close the window?

Context 1:
The speaker is cold.

Context 2:
The speaker is annoyed by the noise outside.

Cross-Cultural Scenario Analysis

Identify potential cultural misunderstandings and suggest how each party could adjust their communication style.

Scenario:
An American businessperson and a Japanese businessperson are discussing a contract.

The American says:
We need a decision by the end of the week.

The Japanese businessperson responds with:
We will think about it.

In our next class, we’ll delve into advanced persuasive techniques in speech and writing.

See you in the next class!