Scalar implicature

Definition

Scalar implicature is a type of conversational implicature that arises when a speaker uses a term from a scale, implying more than what is explicitly stated by suggesting that the alternative options are not true. This often relies on the Gricean maxims of quantity and relevance, allowing speakers to convey additional meanings based on the context in which they communicate. By choosing a less informative term, speakers can lead listeners to infer that other options on the scale are not applicable.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scalar implicatures often involve terms that indicate degrees or amounts, such as 'some,' 'many,' or 'all,' where the choice of a specific term suggests a rejection of more extreme alternatives.
2. An example of scalar implicature can be seen when someone says, 'Some of the cookies are gone,' implying that not all cookies are gone, while saying 'All the cookies are gone' would mean something different.
3. Scalar implicatures can vary depending on context and shared knowledge, meaning what is implied may differ in different conversations.
4. Flouting maxims plays a critical role in generating scalar implicatures; by deliberately being less informative, speakers invite listeners to derive additional meanings.
5. Scalar implicature is linked to generalized conversational implicatures because it applies broadly across various contexts without requiring special circumstances for interpretation.

Review Questions

• How does scalar implicature relate to Grice's Maxims, particularly the maxim of quantity?
  • Scalar implicature closely connects to Grice's maxim of quantity, which states that speakers should provide as much information as is needed but no more. When a speaker chooses a less informative term from a scale (like saying 'some' instead of 'all'), they flout this maxim intentionally, allowing listeners to infer the exclusion of stronger alternatives. This interplay shows how conversational context shapes meaning and how adherence or deviation from maxims influences interpretation.
• In what ways can scalar implicature influence the interpretation of statements in everyday conversation?
  • Scalar implicature significantly impacts how statements are understood in conversation by introducing layers of meaning based on the chosen terminology. For instance, if someone says 'I saw some students at the library,' the listener might infer that not all students were there, thus influencing their understanding of attendance. Such implications can guide actions and responses based on perceived information, making scalar implicature essential for effective communication and social interaction.
• Evaluate how scalar implicature interacts with presupposition in communicative exchanges.
  • The interaction between scalar implicature and presupposition reveals how speakers convey layered meanings through language. Scalar implicatures rely on context and shared knowledge to imply meanings beyond explicit words, while presuppositions establish background assumptions that shape these interpretations. For example, when someone states 'The cat is on the mat,' it presupposes there is a cat and a mat while potentially implicating that the cat is not elsewhere. Understanding this interplay enhances comprehension in nuanced conversations and illustrates the complexity of human communication.

Related terms

Grice's Maxims: A set of conversational principles proposed by philosopher H.P. Grice that guide effective communication, including maxims of quantity, quality, relation, and manner.

Conversational Implicature: The implied meaning in conversation that goes beyond the literal interpretation of words, relying on context and shared knowledge between speakers and listeners.

Presupposition: An implicit assumption about the world or background information that must be accepted for a statement to make sense, often triggered by specific linguistic expressions.