Exploring Interlanguage Pragmatic: Analyzing The Application Of Apology Strategies Among Pakistani Undergraduates

Abstract

When speaking of learning a second language, they encounter two primary challenges. The first is related to linguistic competence, while the second pertains to pragmatic competence. Historically, much research has been dedicated to the former aspect. However, in the 21st century, a notable shift has occurred, with an increasing number of researchers directing their attention towards the latter. This shift has revealed that irrespective of linguistic competence, it is pragmatic competence that poses significant difficulties for learners. These challenges often stem from an inadequate grasp of sociolinguistic norms and conventions. In certain scenarios, L2 learners exhibit a high degree of proficiency in terms of grammatical structure and lexical competence. Nevertheless, their ability to engage in appropriate interactions is hindered due to their restricted familiarity with the nuances of the target language and its associated cultural context. This disparity can result in a situation where even though L2 speakers possess a solid foundation in linguistic aspects, their interactions lack decorum and effectiveness. This deficiency arises from an unnatural awareness of the intricacies that govern not only the language itself but also the social and cultural norms embedded within it. As a result, these individuals might struggle to navigate the intricate web of sociolinguistic expectations, leading to misinterpretations and ineffective communication despite their sound linguistic abilities. The current study deals with one particular communicative act, viz. the act of apologizing, as realized in the speech of Pakistani Undergraduate Students. The study employed DCT (Discourse Completion Task) questionnaires in both Urdu and English to compare and analyze the responses. The study's outcomes indicated that participants approached interlanguage pragmatics, a phenomenon attributed to their limited acquaintance with the cultural nuances of the target language. Furthermore, the respondents displayed a tendency towards the overgeneralization of IFID (Illocutionary Force Indicating Device), due to the lack of knowledge about the diverse apology strategies and their contextually appropriate utilization.