Units Expressing the Content of Humility in the Uzbek and German Languages

This article presents a comparative linguopragmatic analysis of the speech act of humility in the Uzbek and German languages, focusing on the culturally shaped communication strategies and pragmatic norms that govern polite interaction. Humility is examined as a culturally embedded linguistic behavior that functions to express respect, manage interpersonal relations, and prevent conflict in communication. Through the application of Speech Act Theory, Politeness Theory, and cross-cultural pragmatics, the study reveals how expressions of modesty, apologies, requests, and gratitude vary across the two language cultures. While Uzbek humility is often indirect and socially ritualized, German humility tends to be formal, concise, and structured. The findings have practical implications for translation, language learning, diplomacy, and intercultural communication, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and pragmatic awareness in cross-linguistic interactions.