CROSS-CULTURAL PRAGMATICS OF COMPLIMENTS AND APOLOGIES IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK COMMUNICATION

Abstract

This article explores the cross-cultural pragmatics of compliments and apologies in English and Uzbek communication, emphasizing their linguistic, social, and cultural dimensions. The study aims to identify how politeness principles, face-saving strategies, and sociolinguistic norms shape the realization of these speech acts in both languages. Through comparative analysis, the research reveals that while English speakers tend to employ more indirect and face-preserving forms of compliments and apologies, Uzbek speakers demonstrate a preference for culturally embedded expressions that highlight respect, humility, and collectivist values. The paper discusses how pragmatic failures may occur in intercultural communication when the underlying norms are not mutually recognized. The findings contribute to intercultural pragmatics and language teaching by providing insights into culturally sensitive communication strategies and highlighting the pedagogical relevance of speech act awareness in foreign language education.