The phatic function is used to keep communication lines open and also keep social relationships well. It helps in maintaining cohesion within social groups.
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-Refers to the everyday usage of language
-Refers to the small talk between people to share feelings or establish a mood of sociability; phatic language is for the sake of interaction that opens up a social channel.
Ex.
Greetings: How are you today?
Discussions of the weather: It is very warm today.