Bronisław Malinowski’s fatic communication concept explored in Spanish social essay

The essay examines why people often say “tenemos que quedar” (we have to meet) without any real intention to arrange a meeting. It traces the idea to anthropologist Bronisław Malinowski, who coined the term “communication fática,” later refined by linguist Roman Jakobson, describing phrases that convey no substantive information but keep a social connection open. Sociologist Erving Goffman’s work on farewells is also cited, noting that such closing remarks summarize an encounter and set expectations that need not be fulfilled. The author argues that the more valued the relationship, the more likely vague promises are used, and suggests replacing them with concrete dates or times for greater honesty.