Conversational implicature definitions
| Word backwards | lanoitasrevnoc erutacilpmi |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | con-ver-sa-tion-al IM-pli-ca-ture |
| Plural | The plural of the word conversational implicature is conversational implicatures. |
| Total letters | 25 |
| Vogais (5) | o,e,a,i,u |
| Consonants (9) | c,n,v,r,s,t,l,m,p |
Conversational implicature is a concept in pragmatics that refers to the information that is implied in a conversation, rather than explicitly stated. It plays a crucial role in communication by allowing speakers to convey more than just the literal meaning of their words.
How Conversational Implicature Works
Conversational implicature operates on the basis of the Cooperative Principle, introduced by philosopher Paul Grice. This principle assumes that speakers in a conversation strive to be cooperative and provide information that is relevant, truthful, and clear to the listener. When a speaker deviates from this principle, implicatures are created.
Types of Conversational Implicature
There are two main types of conversational implicature: conventional implicature and conversational implicature. Conventional implicature is tied to specific words or phrases and is part of their conventional meaning. Conversational implicature, on the other hand, arises from the context of the conversation and is not explicitly stated by the speaker.
Examples of Conversational Implicature
One common example of conversational implicature is the use of the word "some" in a sentence. When someone says "I ate some of the cookies," they are implicating that they did not eat all of them. This information is inferred from the context rather than directly stated.
Another example is when someone asks "Can you pass the salt?" The implicature here is a polite request for the salt, even though it is phrased as a question. The speaker is not seeking a yes or no answer but is indirectly asking for something.
Significance of Conversational Implicature
Understanding conversational implicature is essential for effective communication. It allows speakers to convey nuanced meanings, add subtlety to their language, and engage in more efficient exchanges. By recognizing implicatures, listeners can better interpret what is being communicated beyond the literal words used.
In conclusion, conversational implicature enriches language by enabling speakers to convey implicit meanings and adding depth to communication. It showcases the complexity and richness of human interaction, highlighting the importance of context, tone, and inference in understanding the true message behind the spoken words.
Conversational implicature Examples
- When Sally said, "I only ran three miles today," she conversational implicature that she usually runs much further.
- By stating, "I can't come to the meeting tonight," Jack conversational implicature that he has another commitment.
- When Sarah asked, "Do you want to order pizza?" she conversational implicature that she is hungry.
- After Bill said, "I'll be there in five minutes," he conversational implicature that he is close by.
- By exclaiming, "Oh, I forgot my wallet again!" Tom conversational implicature that this is a recurring issue for him.
- When Emily mentioned, "I'm not feeling well today," she conversational implicature that she may need to rest.
- After Tim stated, "I already emailed the report," he conversational implicature that he completed the task.
- By saying, "I haven't seen that movie yet," Jane conversational implicature that she may be interested in watching it.
- When Mark declared, "I'm not a fan of spicy food," he conversational implicature that he prefers milder flavors.
- After Mary mentioned, "I have a busy schedule this week," she conversational implicature that she may not have much free time.