Cohesion in Nonnative Discourse

Abstract

This study considers or as a cohesive marker and explores its conversational use in nonnative discourse. Based upon the framework of Schiffrin that or is an inclusive or which allows either of the disjuncts or both, it is more beneficial than its use as an exclusive or because it provides more options to the hearer. The hearer-oriented or were analyzed into four major categories. The most pervasive use of the inclusive option marker or was when it served to support ones position. Second, the cohesive marker of was employed when speakers reformulated their talk in relation to the prior talk. Nonnative speakers also displayed or to signal a turn-exit in their discourse. In exiting their turn or was often sound stretched and co-occurred with short pauses. Lastly, or was observed as a hedging device when speakers coordinated binominals to cover a broader range cueing that they lack certainty or confidence in their talk.