Metaspeech

Metaspeech refers to talk about speech. It is a form of metacommunication, which is communication about communication. Metaspeech can take many forms, including comments about how someone is speaking, the content of their speech, or the meaning of their words. It can also involve discussing the act of speaking itself, such as the choice of words or the tone of voice.

The purpose of metaspeech can vary. It can be used to clarify misunderstandings, provide feedback, or guide the direction of a conversation. For example, someone might say, "What I meant by that was..." to clarify their previous statement. Or, "Let's get back to the main point" to redirect a discussion. Metaspeech can also be used to express emotions or attitudes towards the speech itself, such as "That was a very well-argued point."

In linguistics and communication studies, metaspeech is often analyzed to understand how meaning is constructed and negotiated in social interactions. It plays a crucial role in regulating conversations and ensuring that participants share a common understanding. Understanding metaspeech can help improve communication effectiveness by making speakers more aware of how their words are perceived and how they can be more precise or considerate in their communication. It highlights the reflexive nature of language, where language is used not just to convey information but also to comment upon the very process of conveying that information.