REFUSING AN OFFER IN BUSINESS BY THE AMERICAN-ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE

Abstract

This study explores the intricacies of refusing offers in business settings, comparing strategies used by English and Vietnamese speakers. Grounded in speech act theory, politeness theory, and concepts of offers and refusals, the research examines both direct and indirect refusal methods, offering a more focused analysis than previous studies on general refusals. The findings reveal a wide array of refusal strategies employed by speakers of both languages. Direct approaches include explicit refusals and non-performative statements, while indirect methods encompass apologies, excuses, alternative suggestions, and statements of conditions or principles. These indirect strategies often serve to mitigate the potential negative impact of declining an offer. The study contributes significantly to the field of intercultural business communication by highlighting the distinct refusal approaches in different cultural contexts. It emphasizes the need for further research to explore specific factors influencing strategy choices and to identify potential cultural variations within these approaches. By providing insights into these nuances, the research aims to enhance intercultural communication skills in business environments.