Examines interpretations of messages as a function of whether they are equivocal or unequivocal, whether they protect self-face or other-face, and whether message perceivers are directly involved in the conversation. Finds: equivocation is a polite strategy for conveying a negative message; females regard it as even more polite than males do; and equivocation is regarded as less honest than unequivocal criticism. (SG)