A Gender Based Pragmatic Analysis of English Apology Strategies used by EFL Learners at University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The present study is an attempt to explicate the influence of gender and social status in the selection of English apology strategies in different communicative situations. The sample for the study consists of forty-two EFL learners. Data were collected and analyzed through Discourse Completion Tasks and Interviews. Statistically, no significant difference is observed in the use of English apology strategies among gender; but the result exhibits that both male and female use apology strategies while keeping in mind the interlocutor’s social status. The findings indicate that the most frequently used apology strategies by male and female respondents are 'Explicit expression of apology' especially 'Explicit expression of apology + Explanation or account', 'Expressing regret + Explanation or account' and 'Intensifier'. Interestingly, non of the respondents used 'Recognizing interlocutor as deserving apology' and 'Expressing lack of intent'. This study is helpful to reconnoiter social and cultural differences in the use of apology strategies.