- Definition : A term introduced by Halliday to describe one aspect of register - variations in language use caused by differing relationships between the interlocutors.
- Examples : The choice of a formal/informal, direct/indirect request exponent dependent on whether the participants are a mother speaking to a child or a shop assistant speaking to a customer. Will depend on status/affective involvement and frequency of contact.
- See here for a more in-depth explanation.
