Unpacking Cultural and Linguistic Refusal Strategies in Jordanian EFL Discourse: A Conceptual Paper

Abstract

Refusal strategies are ubiquitous linguistic tools employed in everyday communication. Understanding the application of these strategies is crucial for interpreting the reactions of those receiving the refusals. This study investigates the diverse refusal strategies Jordanian students utilize to explore the cultural and linguistic factors influencing their choices. Data will be collected through interviews and observations and analyzed using Beebe et al.’s (1990) framework. The anticipated results include the identification of the significant influence of linguistic and cultural factors on the forms of refusal strategies employed by the students. The study also expects to identify direct and indirect refusal strategies. Ultimately, this research will provide a foundation for future investigations into the syntactic and morphological processes underlying Jordanian students' construction of refusal strategies in their interactions. A deeper understanding of these processes will contribute to a more nuanced comprehension of pragmatic communication within this cultural context.