Basic Terminology Flashcards
Pragmatics
study of language use in context
Context
refers to those objects or entities which surround a focal event, typically a communicative event of some kind
Pragmatic meaning
refers to the interpretation of language in context
Semantic meaning
refers to the literal or dictionary definition of word or sentence, without taking into account the context or speaker’s intentions
Utterance
complete unit of speech or writing, typically one that is spoken or written in one breath or written as one sentence
Observer´s paradox
the phenomenon where the act of observing and measuring behaviour can affect the behaviour itself
conversational implicature
implied meaning conveyed by a speaker’s utterance
conventional implicature
refers to the implied meaning conveyed by the conventional use of language, rather than by the literal meaning of the words themselves
presupposition
implicit assumption or belief taken for granted by the speaker, which is necessary for the utterance to make sense
inference
the process of making a conclusion or assumption based on evidence or reasoning
deixis
the phenomenon where words or expressions take on different meanings depending on their context
Cooperative Principle
the assumption that speakers of a conversation strive to communicate effectively and efficiently, and are expected to be truthful and relevant in their communication
Politeness Principle
the idea that people should communicate with each other politely, showing respect and consideration for each other’s feelings and social status
positive politeness
a type of politeness that aims to emphasize ad acknowledge the positive aspects of the addressee’s face, such as their desires, interests, and accomplishments
negative politeness
refers to being polite by avoiding imposing on others and their freedom, and by demonstrating respect for their negative face (i.e. their desire not to be imposed upon or intruded)
