On Dispensability

Abstract

I describe 5 sequential environments in which speakers produce talk designed to be, and to be recognizable as, "the same" as something previously said. Examination of such talk reveals that such resayings may omit elements that occurred in the first saying-elements that are apparently taken to be dispensable in getting "the same thing" said. On the other hand, some resayings add elements to the first saying-elements that were apparently dispensable on the first saying. In some resayings, both of these occur. Finally, the treatment of possibly dispensable turn-initial markers-that is, reusing them or dispensing with them-is shown to be a vehicle for achieving the reflexivity of position and composition in conversation: The usage making some position the currently relevant one and the currently relevant position making relevant the usage that is employed.