“PRAISINGTHESELFVS.THEOTHER”:CULTURAL NORMSINGIVINGCOMPLIMENTSINENGLISHAND RUSSIAN

Abstract

 This study explores cross-cultural differences in complimenting behavior by comparing English and Rus
sian speakers’ use of self-praise and other-praise. Drawing on data from authentic interactions and elicited
 responses, the research investigates how cultural norms shape the acceptability, frequency, and linguistic
 forms of compliments in both languages. In English, compliments tend to emphasize the addressee’s quali
ties or achievements, reflectingindividualistic values and positive politeness strategies. In contrast, Russian
 complimentsdisplay a morecomplexinterplayofmodesty,indirectness, and self-presentation, where overt
 self-praise is often mitigated and compliments may serve broader social functions such as solidarity or rela
tional negotiation. The analysis reveals not only differences in the preferred complimenting strategies but
 also the sociopragmatic rules underlying their use. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of
 intercultural communication and offer practical implications for language teaching, translation, and cross
cultural training