Right Dislocation

Definition

Right dislocation is a syntactic phenomenon in which a clause is restructured to place an element at the end of the sentence, often for emphasis or clarity. This construction allows speakers to present known or given information first, while introducing new or focused information in a way that highlights it at the end of the statement. It serves as a way to manage information flow and emphasize specific elements within communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Right dislocation typically involves rearranging sentences so that an object or a complement appears at the end, after a pronoun that refers to it.
2. This technique often serves to maintain coherence by reiterating known information before introducing new content, making it easier for listeners to follow.
3. It can be used to create emphasis on the final element of a sentence, drawing attention to it and making it stand out in conversation.
4. Right dislocation is more common in spoken language than in written language, as speakers often rely on intonation and stress for clarity.
5. In addition to creating emphasis, right dislocation can also enhance stylistic variety in speech, contributing to more dynamic and engaging communication.

Review Questions

• How does right dislocation facilitate the management of given and new information within a sentence?
  • Right dislocation helps manage given and new information by presenting known elements first, which sets a context for what follows. By placing new or emphasized information at the end of a sentence, speakers allow listeners to build on their existing knowledge before encountering fresh content. This structure creates a smoother flow of information and helps maintain clarity during communication.
• Discuss how right dislocation can be used as a focus and emphasis technique in conversational settings.
  • Right dislocation serves as an effective focus and emphasis technique by placing important information at the end of a statement, where it can receive heightened stress. This placement not only draws attention to key details but also aligns with natural speech patterns, enhancing listener engagement. In conversations, this technique helps clarify meaning while allowing speakers to highlight specific points without changing the overall message.
• Evaluate the implications of using right dislocation in both spoken and written communication contexts, considering its effectiveness and limitations.
  • Using right dislocation in spoken communication often enhances clarity and emphasizes key points due to its alignment with natural speech rhythms. However, in written contexts, it may lead to ambiguity or confusion if not used judiciously. The effectiveness of right dislocation depends on audience familiarity with the topic and context; when overused or misapplied, it can disrupt coherence. Understanding these dynamics helps speakers and writers decide when this technique will enhance rather than complicate their message.

Related terms

Left Dislocation: A syntactic structure where the object or a part of the predicate is moved to the beginning of the sentence, followed by a pronoun that refers back to it.

Information Structure: The organization of information in communication, including how speakers present given and new information to listeners.

Topic and Comment: A framework in which a sentence is divided into two parts: the topic (what the sentence is about) and the comment (what is said about the topic).