Implicature definitions
| Word backwards | erutacilpmi |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Implicature is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | im-pli-ca-ture |
| Plural | The plural of the word implicature is implicatures. |
| Total letters | 11 |
| Vogais (4) | i,a,u,e |
| Consonants (6) | m,p,l,c,t,r |
Implicature is a concept in pragmatics that goes beyond the literal meaning of the words used in communication. It involves understanding implied meaning through context, shared knowledge, and conversational rules.
Types of Implicature
There are two main types of implicature: conventional implicature and conversational implicature. Conventional implicature is based on the conventional meaning of specific words or phrases, while conversational implicature arises from the context in which the communication takes place.
Grice's Maxims
Paul Grice, a philosopher of language, proposed the Cooperative Principle and four conversational maxims to explain how implicatures are generated in communication. The maxims include the Maxim of Quantity, Quality, Relation, and Manner, which speakers and listeners follow to derive implicit meaning.
Scalar Implicature
Scalar implicature occurs when a speaker chooses a weaker term over a stronger one to imply the meaning of the stronger term. For example, saying "some" instead of "all" can communicate a specific message depending on the context.
Implicature plays a crucial role in understanding subtle nuances in language and interpreting speaker intentions. It allows for more efficient communication by conveying additional layers of meaning beyond the literal words used.
Context and intentions are key factors in implicature, as they help determine the implied meaning behind words and phrases. By considering the context and applying conversational rules, listeners can infer implicatures in everyday communication.
Overall, implicature enhances the richness and depth of human communication by allowing for the implicit conveyance of information and meaning. Understanding implicature is essential for effective communication and interpreting the full scope of messages in various linguistic contexts.
Implicature Examples
- She said she was staying late at work, implying she wouldn't be home for dinner.
- His raised eyebrows were an implicature of disbelief in her story.
- The sarcastic tone of her voice conveyed an implicature of annoyance.
- When he said he had no plans for the weekend, it was an implicature that he was open to suggestions.
- The way she looked away when asked about the missing money suggested an implicature of guilt.
- The pause before answering the question carried an implicature of hesitation.
- His smile while talking about the promotion gave an implicature of excitement.
- The use of a certain emoji in her text message conveyed an implicature of sarcasm.
- The rolling of his eyes implied an implicature of annoyance with the situation.
- The choice of words in his apology letter carried an implicature of insincerity.