Impoliteness Discourse In Courtroom

Courtroom discourse is a typical institutional discourse which is usuallygoal-directed and task-oriented in specific locations, which has its specific proceduresand rules. Impolite language is one against standard language based on the presumptionof communication between both sides from a pragmatic non-adaptive under certainconditions. It is dynamic and relative which may reflect both the opposite and positivecommunicative value.It is no doubt that polite speech acts are relatively more popular, however, in thedaily life, due to some reasons, the speaker may wish to offend the hearer in the court.Based on the existing theoretical framework, this thesis presents a descriptive andqualitative study of impoliteness in courtroom discourse. The author hopes that this studycan help participants in Chinese courtroom trials improve their self-expression andability to respond in communication.The qualitative method is employed to analyze the data collected from CCTV12civil cases in2011. Based on Culpeper’s impoliteness principle, the author analyzes thetype of impoliteness in courtroom discourse，such as: Bald on Record impoliteness,Positive impoliteness, Negative impoliteness, Sarcasm or Mock impoliteness, Withholdpoliteness; and then gives the corresponding strategies like try to understand each other’sneeds and the dodge the point of contention, reaching out and admit the fault. ThenLiao’s Goal-Direction Principle is used to explain reasons for the different kinds ofimpolite words and participants, who may help people, know more of the courtroomdiscourse. The study shows that in the courtroom discourse impoliteness phenomenaexist and affect the trial in court, but we should try to use polite speech, show our respectfor others, and promote the harmonious atmosphere of the court.