Certainty assessment in informal language

Abstract

This research studied linguistic hedges in informal language style. Hedges are expressions that show a weakened commitment of speakers with respect to what they are saying. This modification in their commitment is made for various reasons; to show their personal stance, to show their state of knowledge or to show politeness as a deference to potential readers. At the same time, their motivations stem from their caring about how they are perceived and from their wish to be more precise in their evaluations.