How people avoid misunderstandings in conversations

What is it about?

This article by Chi-Hé Elder and Michael Haugh explores how people manage and avoid misunderstandings during conversations. It focuses on “unwanted inferences”: potential misunderstandings that arise from what someone says but are not intended by the speaker. The article challenges traditional views that focus solely on primary meanings and highlights the importance of theorising about secondary meanings that are often left unspoken but can influence interactions. The study uses examples from real conversations to illustrate how people use various strategies to divert attention from unwanted inferences. They present a six-part classification of strategies based on (1) the source of the unwanted inference; and (2) whether the inference is exposed or remains hidden in the conversation.

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Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This article highlights the complexity of communication and the subtle ways people navigate potential misunderstandings to maintain smooth interactions. Unwanted inferences can be problematic if they imply something the speaker does not want to communicate or be held responsible for. Understanding how people avoid and manage unwanted inferences can improve communication in various settings, such as personal relationships, professional environments, and intercultural interactions. This knowledge can help individuals navigate conversations more effectively, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing clarity. Overall, this article enhances our understanding of the intricate ways people communicate and manage potential misunderstandings, offers valuable insights into human behaviour and social interaction.