Социолингвистические и прагматические аспекты использования чат-ботов носителями словацкого и венгерского языков

This study investigates the dynamics of interaction between native Slovak and Hungarian speakers (n=216) with AI chatbots from a sociolinguistic and pragmatic perspective. The research employs a mix-method questionnaire and assesses speakers’ perceptions and preferences in terms of language choices, levels of formality, and tone during interactions with AI chatbots. It also draws attention to conversational and politeness strategies, as well as dealing with miscommunications and errors. The findings reveal that the choice of users’ language is linked to their communicative goals and tasks, with a neutral and formal tone prevailing in their interactions with chatbots. The respondents generally consider chatbots as capable of understanding messages well and employ rephrasing and prompt simplifying most frequently to avoid miscommunication. The general level of politeness among respondents is reported important and high with politeness expressions used quite frequently. Conversely, the participants report neglecting the use of emojis and point out using politeness expressions out of habit and with the endeavor to maintain a respectful tone. The findings indicate that users primarily view interactions with chatbots as functional, placing a higher value on communication efficiency than on cultural or emotional exchanges, as well as on informal and friendly discourse. Although users generally demonstrate a high level of politeness towards chatbots, it is assumed that the use of polite expressions stems more from habitual behavior and cultural influence than from a conscious effort to enhance communication with these systems