Using words like "honestly" and "off the record" in conversations is classified as which of the following?

Using words like "honestly" and "off the record" in conversations can indicate that the speaker is trying to draw attention to the sincerity of their statements or the confidentiality of the conversation. These phrases can serve as verbal flags that suggest the speaker may be attempting to bolster their credibility or introduce a level of doubt regarding the information being shared.

When someone uses "honestly," it can imply that they believe their statement might otherwise be doubted or that they're making a significant point that requires additional emphasis. Similarly, "off the record" indicates that the information shared is not meant to be public or is provided with the expectation of confidentiality, which can create a sense of accountability or informal context around the statements made.

Such phrases might reveal potential issues in the conversation, sometimes referred to as denial flags—indications that the speaker may not fully align with the statements they are making or that they are trying to manage how the information is perceived. The attention these words draw often functions as a signal to the listener that they should approach the statement with caution, as it might not be as straightforward or trustworthy as it otherwise appears.

Other options like truthful assertions, effective communication strategies, and non-verbal cues do not accurately capture the implications of using such phrases in