Resolving Misunderstanding through an Extended Sequence

Abstract

This study investigates the resolution of misunderstandings through complex repair practices in Korean conversation. Utilizing data from a 45-minute phone call between two native Korean speakers, Sophia and Chan, the paper examines how an extended sequence of repair practices is employed to address a misunderstanding regarding a third person, Kihoon. Through a conversational analytic framework, the analysis reveals how the participants navigate and resolve the trouble source over multiple turns, demonstrating the use of various repair initiators. The findings highlight three key points: (1) the progression from weaker to stronger repair initiators as the repair sequence unfolds, (2) the elastic and robust nature of repair mechanisms that allow for extended trouble resolution, and (3) the implications for language teaching, emphasizing the importance of repair practices in second language acquisition. While the study offers insights into complex repair sequences in a non-English language, it acknowledges limitations in generalizability and suggests further research into diverse repair practices across different languages. This paper contributes to expanding the theoretical understanding of repair practices and provides practical insights for language educators.