What does conversational repair involve?

Conversational repair involves the speaker recognizing a speech error and taking steps to correct it. This process is essential in maintaining clarity and understanding in communication. When a speaker makes a mistake, such as mispronouncing a word or using the wrong term, acknowledging that error and correcting it helps ensure the listener comprehends the intended message. This practice supports effective dialogue and enhances the interaction between speakers and listeners, fostering a collaborative communication environment.

In contrast, simply ignoring mistakes to keep the conversation flowing may lead to misunderstandings, as the listener might not grasp the intended meaning. Utilizing non-verbal cues can aid communication but is not specifically related to correcting speech errors. Finally, refraining from speaking to avoid mistakes does not contribute to conversational repair, as it hinders effective communication and limits engagement in the discussion.