Demonstratives

Definition

Demonstratives are words that indicate a specific person, place, thing, or idea in a given context. They serve to point out or draw attention to something, helping to establish a clear reference point.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Demonstratives can be used to indicate proximity, such as 'this' for something close and 'that' for something farther away.
2. Demonstratives play a crucial role in establishing coherence and cohesion within a text or conversation.
3. The choice of demonstrative can convey the speaker's attitude or perspective towards the referent.
4. Demonstratives are often used in combination with other deictic expressions, such as 'here' and 'there', to further specify the location or distance of the referent.
5. Proper use of demonstratives is essential for clear and unambiguous communication, as they help the listener or reader identify the intended referent.

Review Questions

• Explain how demonstratives function in establishing deictic reference within a trial setting.
  • In a trial setting, demonstratives play a crucial role in establishing deictic reference. Lawyers and witnesses may use demonstratives like 'this' or 'that' to point out specific pieces of evidence, locations, or individuals involved in the case. The use of demonstratives helps the court and jury clearly understand the referent being discussed, aiding in the comprehension and interpretation of the testimony and evidence presented.
• Describe how demonstratives can be used to create anaphoric and cataphoric references in the context of a trial.
  • Demonstratives can be used to create both anaphoric and cataphoric references within a trial setting. Lawyers may use 'this' or 'that' to refer back to something previously mentioned in the testimony or evidence, establishing an anaphoric reference. Conversely, they may use demonstratives to refer forward to something that will be introduced later, creating a cataphoric reference. These referential techniques help maintain coherence and guide the audience's attention throughout the presentation of the case.
• Analyze how the strategic use of demonstratives can influence the persuasiveness and clarity of arguments made during a trial.
  • The strategic use of demonstratives can significantly impact the persuasiveness and clarity of arguments made during a trial. Lawyers may carefully select demonstratives to convey their perspective or attitude towards the referent, influencing the jury's interpretation. Additionally, the precise use of demonstratives to establish deictic, anaphoric, and cataphoric references can enhance the coherence and flow of the argument, making it more compelling and easier for the audience to follow. By effectively leveraging demonstratives, lawyers can strengthen the overall impact and effectiveness of their case presentation.

Related terms

Deictic Reference: The use of demonstratives and other linguistic expressions to refer to objects, people, or locations in the immediate physical or discourse context.

Anaphoric Reference: The use of demonstratives and other pronouns to refer back to something previously mentioned in the discourse.

Cataphoric Reference: The use of demonstratives and other pronouns to refer forward to something that will be mentioned later in the discourse.