Conversational Style: Analyzing Talk among Friends

Abstract

This research focused on the analysis of informal conversations among both foreign and local groups of friends and students of BS English, studying at NUML University, Islamabad, Pakistan through Harvey Sack's model of Conversational analysis (1974) and Paul Grice model of Cooperative Principle to investigate specific elements and strategies employed by both the class of friends to manage turn taking, examine the different patterns of turn allocation, and analyze how interruptions and overlaps are handled. It specifically examined several aspects of conversational analysis such as turn taking, adjacency pairs, and cooperative principles. It investigated the strategies both the local and foreign groups of friends often use to navigate turn taking, explores patterns of turn allocation, and examines how interruptions and overlaps are managed in an informal naturally occurring conversation. Additionally, it also analyzed the occurrence and functions of adjacency pairs, including their role in establishing rapport and navigating disruptions. The study also examined how friends of both the class adhered to or deviated from the cooperative principles, such as providing accurate or relevant information. To achieve its goal, the current study used a Qualitative research method, including audio recordings and transcriptions to capture and analyze naturally occurring informal conversations among both local and foreign friends. The research aimed to provide a comprehensive and an indepth understanding of these different aspects of conversational analysis and their significance in sustaining social bonds among these both groups of friends. The findings of research at hand are hoped to contribute to the broader sociolinguistic context and communication studies, enhancing our understanding of informal talk and human interaction within close friendships.