Politeness Markers in the Conversation of Malay Children

(Penanda Santun dalam Perbualan Kanak-kanak Melayu)

Abstract

The present study aims to identify and analyze the usage of politeness markers in the dialogues of Malay children. This qualitative study involved a sample of 20 Malay children aged six years old from four different kindergartens in Malaysia. The data were taken from recordings of the children's conversations while participating in formal educational activities in class, and were analyzed using Leech's Politeness Principles (1983). The results of the study indicate that Malay children in kindergarten use a number of politeness markers in their conversations with their peers and also the researcher. The most commonly-used politeness markers were 'boleh' (could/can), 'tolong' (please) and 'terima kasih' (thank you). Furthermore, the study also found that the tact maxim is the most dominant in the conversations of Malay children.

Keywords: politeness in conversation, politeness markers, children, Leech's politeness principles