HOW STANDARD OPENING AND CLOSING PHRASES INSTANTLY ESTABLISH AUTHORITY AND TRUST

Abstract

This thesis examines how standard opening and closing phrases help establish authority and trust in professional, academic and institutional communication. Such phrases are not empty formalities; they perform important pragmatic and rhetorical functions. Openings define the speaker’s position, clarify communicative intent and create expectations, while closings complete the interaction, reinforce responsibility and preserve a respectful relationship with the audience.