Interactional Sociolinguistics is a field that studies how language is used in social contexts. It focuses on the ways people communicate and how their interactions are influenced by factors like culture, identity, and social norms. By examining conversations, researchers can uncover the subtle meanings behind words and gestures, revealing how language shapes our understanding of each other.
This approach emphasizes the importance of context in communication. For instance, the same phrase can have different meanings depending on the setting or the relationship between speakers. By analyzing these interactions, scholars gain insights into how language reflects and constructs social realities.