A Pragma-Syntactic Analysis of Compliments in a Selection of Chat-Messenger Messages

Abstract

This study examines the pragma-syntactic features of the compliment speech act in selected chat messages. Drawing on Austin's classification of illocutionary acts and Searle's expressive category, compliments are analyzed as behavioral expressions of admiration, approval, and solidarity. The analysis employs a three-step methodology: a- identifying the pragmatic meaning of each utterance, b- categorizing its grammatical structure according to nine established syntactic patterns of compliments, and testing its validity in the context by applying felicity conditions. The results indicate that compliments in digital discourse are flexible, multifunctional, and often interwoven with other expressive acts, such as congratulations, gratitude, and affection. Such usage highlights the role of compliments in maintaining interpersonal relationships and mitigating face-threatening acts in online communication.