Talking Back with Meaning: A Pragmatic Analysis of Response Tokens in Ghanaian English Discourse

Abstract

In interaction, interlocutors are expected to allow the talk to flow without difficulty. This smooth flow can be achieved with the use of little words (or response tokens) which do not appear to have any effect on the syntactic structure of the utterances but add important pragmatic value to them. This paper is a case study on the use of response tokens in Ghanaian English. It investigates the types and functions of the tokens as they are used in this variety of English. To achieve this, conversations were recorded from 50 students and analyzed qualitatively. Using Xudong's combined Lumping and Splitting approaches, the types and functions of the tokens were identified. The results revealed that there are minimal tokens (single words and non-lexical vocalizations) and non-minimal tokens (phrases, clauses, premodified tokens, clusters, extended responses, collaborative finishes). The tokens were utilized as continuers, convergence and divergence markers, and as engagement markers. Based on the results, it is argued that response tokens should be seen as meaningful elements which should be employed to maintain fluency in talk-in-interaction.