A Theoretical Analysis of Cross-Cultural Pragmatic 
Failures: Challenges in English as a Second Language

Han Yu

doi:10.70711/neet.v2i7.5101

A Theoretical Analysis of Cross-Cultural Pragmatic Failures: Challenges in English as a Second Language

Han Yu

Abstract

Cross-cultural pragmatic failures are a significant challenge for English as a Second Language (ESL) learners, often leading to misunderstandings and communication breakdowns. This paper presents a theoretical analysis of the causes of cross-cultural pragmatic failures,
focusing on the differences in cultural norms, politeness strategies, and speech acts between English and other languages. By exploring the
complexities of pragmatics in intercultural communication, this study highlights the specific challenges faced by ESL learners, including the
transfer of native cultural norms and the difficulty of interpreting implicit meanings in English. The paper also discusses strategies that educators can use to help learners develop pragmatic competence and overcome these challenges.

Keywords

Cross-cultural pragmatics; Pragmatic failures; ESL; Politeness strategies; Speech acts

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References

[1] Kasper, G., & Rose, K. R. (2002). Pragmatic Development in a Second Language. Wiley-Blackwell.

[2] Blum-Kulka, S., House, J., & Kasper, G. (1989). Cross-Cultural Pragmatics: Requests and Apologies. Ablex Publishing.

[3] Thomas, J. (1983). Cross-Cultural Pragmatic Failure. Applied Linguistics, 4(2), 91-112.

[4] Spencer-Oatey, H. (2008). Culturally Speaking: Culture, Communication and Politeness Theory. Continuum International Publishing

Group.

[5] Yule, G. (1996). Pragmatics. Oxford University Press.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.70711/neet.v2i7.5101

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