Language and Meaning

Question 1

Define language

Answer 1

a collection of symbols/letters/words with arbitrary meanings governed by rules

Question 2

What are the 4 rules of language?

Answer 2

• Semantics (meanings)
• Syntax (arrangement of words)
• Pragmatics (sarcasm/euphemisms/metaphors)
• Phatic communication (social functions)

Question 3

Explain the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis (3)

Answer 3

our perception of reality is determined by our thought processes

our thought processes are limited by our language

hence, language shapes our reality and behaviours

Question 4

Explain the Ladder of Abstraction (2)

Answer 4

top - abstract (wisdom, insight, understanding)

bottom - concrete (data, information, knowledge)

Question 5

Define indexing

Answer 5

opposite of stereotyping - recognizing uniqueness

Question 6

What type of language should be avoided? (8)

Answer 6

Grammatical errors
Slang
Clichés
Euphemisms
Profanity
Doublespeak
Jargon
Regionalisms

Question 7

How can one improve their language? (3)

Answer 7

Using operational definitions
Indexing
Differentiating between observations and inferences

Question 8

What are the 3 functions of language?

Answer 8

• Helps us to notice things
• Creates opportunities and constraints in our daily lives
• Facilitates social interaction

Question 9

Distinguish between ethnocentric communicators and cosmopolitan communicators

Answer 9

Ethnocentric - recognize only their own meanings and understandings

Cosmopolitan - understand that 1 word can have many meanings

Question 10

Compare and contrast god terms and devil terms (3)

Answer 10

god terms - viewed positively

devil terms - viewed negatively

both - powerful and evocative