The Grammar-Pragmatics Interface in Learners of German: Insights into the Acquisition of Speech Act Modification

Kölner Universitäts PublikationsServer (Universität zu Köln) 2026 Thesis

Authors: Christina Rath
Cited by: 0

Abstract

This book investigates the grammar-pragmatics interface in adult refugee-background learners of German, focusing on the acquisition of speech act modifications in requests and complaints. Drawing on an empirical study with Syrian Arabic learners in Germany, it explores how grammatical competence shapes pragmatic development at low proficiency levels. Bridging a gap in L2 pragmatics research, it offers new insights into syntactic downgraders, pragmatic perception, and speech act theory in the context of forced migration.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Linguistics and Language Analysis Language Discourse Communication Strategies EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning

Publication details

Journal / source
Kölner Universitäts PublikationsServer (Universität zu Köln)
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN
Document type
Thesis