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A research team from the British Royal Holloway University (London) has discovered an unexpected linguistic factor that significantly influences the perceived sincerity of apologies. According to the results of the study, the key role is played not so much by the content of the statement, but by the length of the words used, gazeta.ru reports with reference to The Conversation.
Scientists have found an interesting pattern: apologies that contain longer words are perceived by listeners as more sincere and convincing. However, the researchers warn against using overly complex or unusual expressions, as they can interfere with understanding the main message.
"The length of the word becomes a non-verbal signal of effort - a kind of "currency of sincerity," the publication notes.
Shiri Lev-Ari, head of the research group, emphasizes that this effect operates on a subconscious level. People do not consciously analyze the length of the words they use, but the brain automatically evaluates this parameter as an indicator of the authenticity of the apology and the sincerity of the speaker.