Conversational Implicature

Definition

Conversational implicature refers to the idea that speakers can imply meanings beyond the literal interpretation of their words based on context and social cues. This concept plays a crucial role in understanding how communication works, emphasizing that meaning is not solely derived from words but also from the context of a conversation, shared knowledge, and conversational norms. It suggests that listeners often read between the lines, drawing inferences that fill in gaps left by speakers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conversational implicature highlights that much of communication is implied rather than explicitly stated, relying heavily on context.
2. Grice introduced the concept through his maxims, suggesting that people often expect speakers to provide the right amount of information based on the conversation's context.
3. Implicatures can be classified into two types: conventional implicature, which relies on specific words or phrases, and conversational implicature, which depends on context.
4. Understanding conversational implicature is essential for effective communication since misinterpretations can lead to misunderstandings.
5. Cultural norms significantly affect conversational implicature, as what is implied in one culture may not hold the same meaning in another.

Review Questions

• How does conversational implicature enhance our understanding of pragmatics in communication?
  • Conversational implicature enhances our understanding of pragmatics by illustrating how context and social cues shape meaning beyond literal words. It emphasizes that effective communication often relies on shared knowledge and the ability to infer meanings that are not directly stated. This understanding helps clarify why speakers might choose certain phrases or leave information unsaid, revealing the complexity of human interaction.
• Analyze how Grice's maxims relate to conversational implicature and provide an example.
  • Grice's maxims serve as foundational principles for conversational implicature, guiding how speakers should communicate effectively. For instance, if someone says, 'Can you pass the salt?' while at a dinner table, they are not just asking about the ability to do so (maxim of quality) but are actually implying a request for the salt itself (maxim of quantity). If this request isn't met, it could lead to confusion or frustration as it breaches expected conversational norms.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural differences on the interpretation of conversational implicature.
  • Cultural differences can significantly affect how conversational implicatures are interpreted and understood. For example, in some cultures, directness is valued while in others, indirect hints or polite forms are preferred. This divergence can lead to misunderstandings when individuals from different backgrounds engage in conversation. A person from a direct communication culture may misinterpret a polite request from someone from an indirect culture as vagueness rather than an intended suggestion, highlighting the importance of cultural context in interpreting meaning.

Related terms

Pragmatics: The study of how context influences the interpretation of meaning in communication, focusing on what is implied rather than what is explicitly stated.

Maxims of Conversation: Guidelines proposed by philosopher H.P. Grice that speakers typically follow to ensure effective communication, including maxims of quantity, quality, relation, and manner.

Deixis: Words and phrases that require contextual information to convey meaning, such as 'here,' 'there,' 'you,' and 'I,' which depend on the speaker's perspective.