The discussion in this article offers a comparison between Relevance Theory as an
account of human communication and Herbert Clark’s (1996)sociocognitive
Action Theory approach. It is argued that the differences are fundamental and impact
analysis of all kinds of naturally occurring communicative data, including that
produced by non-native speakers. The differences are discussed and illustrated with
data from second language communication strategies. It is suggested that the often
fraught interactions between native and non-native speakers are better captured
through a Relevance Theory approach than through the alternatives.
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