This paper explores the linguistic politeness strategies employed in spontaneous speech interactions. Drawing on Brown and Levinson’s (1987) politeness theory, the study investigates how speakers maintain social harmony through face-saving strategies in unplanned conversations. Using naturalistic data from informal conversations among university students, the research identifies common politeness strategies and contextual factors influencing their use. Findings highlight the significance of cultural norms, social roles, and speech context in shaping politeness behavior.

linguistic politeness, spontaneous speech, face-threatening acts, Brown and Levinson, positive politeness, negative politeness, discourse analysis, speech interaction, pragmatics, sociolinguistics

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