In pragmatics, what is used to soften the possible negative impact of what has been said?

• A. Mitigation
• B. Emphasis
• C. Irony
• D. Directness

Answer: (A)

Mitigation is the technique used in pragmatics to soften the possible negative impact of what has been said. It involves hedging, indirectness, and politeness markers that lessen the force of a statement or command, helping to protect the listener’s face and maintain smooth social interaction. For example, saying “Could you possibly finish this by tomorrow?” or “I was wondering if you might consider a different approach” uses softeners and less direct language to reduce imposing or offending the listener. In contrast, emphasis strengthens or highlights something, irony relies on contrast or sarcasm, and directness states things plainly and clearly without softening, which can heighten potential negative impact. Therefore, mitigation is the term that best fits the idea of softening what’s said.