What is conventional indirectness?

Answer 1

Conventional indirectness refers to a communicative style where speakers convey their messages in a roundabout or implied way rather than stating them directly. This approach often relies on shared cultural norms and context for interpretation, allowing speakers to express politeness, avoid confrontation, or soften the impact of their words. It is commonly used in various social interactions, where direct statements might be considered too blunt or inappropriate. Understanding conventional indirectness requires familiarity with the subtleties of language and the specific social context.