It is well known, in reference to foreign language education, that the choice of a particular formal phrase which has particular sociolinguistic specifics depends on various factors related to the cultural tradition of the country where the foreigner comes from, his/ her social status, etc.
The article, in particular, addresses those issues related to studying the Bulgarian apology phrases and the psycholinguistic mechanism of their perception, misperception respectively, by foreigners. It is further emphasized that a major point of importance of the contemporary educational practices is the one related to the polite phrases and foreign culture’s behavioral norms.
Naturally, the conclusion is that their correct understanding and apprehension represents the basis of the open intercultural dialogue which forms the adequate communication through its realization in the various aspects of the individual and public life.
Key words: sociolinguistic specifics, cultural tradition, polite phrases, educational practices, intercultural competence, intercultural dialogue.
