Apology as a multifunctional speech act in Czech students' e-mails to their lecturer

Abstract

This article addresses e-mail communications between university students and their lecturer in the Czech Republic. Politeness strategies employed in 200 Czech students' e-mail apologies sent to a lecturer were analysed.

Students use multiple strategies to create a positive self-image of a committed and reliable student, combining direct expressions of apology, explanations, and acknowledgement of responsibility.

Keywords

• politeness
• e-mail
• apology
• directness
• institutional communication, Czech