Polite Speech Is Much More Than Empty Words

Polite Speech Is Much More Than Empty Words

Politeness is like engine oil for society. It is utilized to get you where you want and considered a necessity to be accepted in our first world culture that relies on societal civilities in order to function. Communities use polite speech to simply imply intent but as the anthropologist concluded, they are used to communicate politeness rather than the literal meaning of the sentences. Although politeness is second nature to most, it is frequently used to persuade and get people to be more open minded to one's own ambition or ideas. In society today, people often use polite speech to gain what they want and get them where they need to be. There are many reasons as to why there is such value in polite speech, some being to establish respect, indicate preeminence, or to demonstrate authority and justification.

For example, polite speech is often used to speak with people who work in service to the law such as police officers and judges. The way someone carries himself can reflect other people’s impression of him and its utility creates an insight of maturity and responsibility. When speaking with a judge, a person applies polite speech to make it seem as though the compromises made are just and fair. Phrases such as “ma’am” and “sir” are used to address them in an affable manner and exhibit a sense of certainty, allowing the people who are in higher position to be more in control of the situation. Throughout many court cases, judges could feel a possible sense of doubt from the defendant but the courtesy that is used has the effect to grant a sense of resolution so that the judge may feel definite about his decision.

A common instance in which politeness is vital are in settings such as schools. When a student addresses a teacher without the application of polite speech and manners, it is probable that their request will not be taken into consideration. Not only does polite speech disclose sincere intent but it allows superiors such as the administrators and teachers to feel a sense of respect and acknowledgement that they are the ones who possess control. Thus, phrases such as “may I” and “please” are frequently used to cultivate teachers for simple requests as well as allow the relationship of the student and the teacher to be built upon esteem.

Polite speech is important for an environment, such as a person’s workplace, because the ability to work well with others is essential for forming strong relationships. One benefit of being polite in the workplace is that it can help managers and workers make good first impressions on coworkers and clients. Being polite in the workplace and following proper workplace etiquette can help managers and workers function well as a whole. Simple gestures such as saying "please" and "thank you" can go long way to making a good first impression