Overlap
A situation in conversation where two speakers speak simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. Overlaps can indicate engagement or violation of turn-taking norms.
Real World
In transcripts of Love Island conversations, frequent overlaps between contestants affirm excitement and group solidarity, whereas overlaps in an argument scene signal dominance and a breakdown of cooperative turn-taking.
Exam Focus
Distinguish overlap from interruption using evidence, and link the pattern to the social context or power relationship between speakers.
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