Shifting Conversational Focus Through Violations of The Maxim of Quantity in Film Dialogues

Abstract

This study explores how violations of the maxim of quantity function pragmatically to shift conversational focus in film dialogues. In everyday interaction, speaker do not always provide information in the expected amount. Once, they intentionally provide too little or too much information in order to manage sensitive topics or redirect the direction of the conversation. This study uses a qualitative method, analyzes eight selected dialogues taken from a fantasy film where characters depart from the cooperative principle during interaction. The analysis shows that violations of the maxim of quantity occur in two main forms: providing minimal information to avoid further discussion of uncomfortable issues, and offering excessive information that distract attention from the main topic. These strategies allow speakers to redirect conversational focus, reduce interpersonal tension, and maintain control over the direction of the interaction.