Symmetry and asymmetry in forms of address in Spanish parliamentary debate. A pragmatic analysis

Abstract

Parliaments are very special workplaces in the sense that daily routine of political management is combined with their iconicity as institutions where the most important decisions of a nation are taken. Due to their high formality, forms of address used in parliaments by their members must comply with factors of respect for the status quo of the MPs as well as with parliamentary etiquette. Although many of these forms are applicable to all MPs (Honorable Member, Deputy), a quantitative analysis combined with a careful pragmatic reading reveals that forms of address are an important strategy utilized to emphasize one's position as well as to attack political opponents. The present study provides a detailed analysis of all the professional forms of address in addition to certain relevant pronominal forms in the context of the Spanish Parliament.