Conversational interaction relies on a rich inventory of feedback signals among the interlocutors. We investigate both the repertoire of feedback mechanisms as well as the cognitive consequences of feedback. How is feedback expressed verbally? How suitable are certain feedback responses to signal truth, falsity, doubt or surprise? How is feedback processed in real-time?

We study different types of linguistic feedback markers, going beyond mere expressions of truth (Correct!) or falsity (Wrong!) by including feedback signals of doubt (Really?) and surprise (Wow!). We further investigate the electrophysiological responses to linguistic feedback markers. In recent collaborative research, participants “interacted” with two characters, Ms Orange and Ms Blue. Ms Orange utters a factual statement and the participant indicates whether the statement is true or false by pressing a response button. Then Ms Blue provides feedback to the response. The electrophysiological response to Ms Blue’s feedback is measured.

The electrophysiological responses signaled discrete processes for the different feedback markers that go beyond what has previously been described as “feedback-related negativity” in studies employing binary (false/true) feedback.