PHONOLOGICAL PECULIARITIES OF SPOKEN DISCOURSE: PAUSE
Keywords:
pauses, spoken discourse, phonology, hesitation, fluency, turn-taking, communication, discourse analysisAbstract
Pauses are a natural and essential component of spoken discourse, shaping the rhythm, meaning, and emotional tone of speech. In real communication, people do not speak in a continuous flow; instead, they frequently stop to think, organize ideas, or respond to their interlocutor. These moments of silence, whether filled or unfilled, carry important communicative and cognitive functions. They help speakers plan what to say next, manage interaction, express hesitation or emphasis, and create coherence in discourse. This article examines pauses not only as phonological markers but also as meaningful elements that reflect the mental and social processes behind spoken communication. The discussion highlights the types, functions, and cultural interpretations of pauses and explains their importance for comprehension, fluency, and language learning.
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