Abstract
This study explores the use of politeness formulaic expressions in everyday social interaction in colloquial Jordanian Arabic. Analysis of ethnographically observed data of ninety-four formulaic expressions within the framework of Brown and Levinson’s (1987) classical politeness theory reveals that these formulae are of two types: positive politeness formulae which are used in interactional and transactional contexts and emphasize solidarity and communal belonging; and negative politeness formulae concerned with showing deference and non-imposition. The use of these formulae reflects speakers’ greater concern with positive rather than negative politeness. It further displays the fixity and continuity of social norms and traditions transmitted through these formulae. As many of these formulae involve reference to God, such formulaicity further emphasizes the religious and fatalistic nature of the community.
