Conventional implicature

Definition

Conventional implicature refers to the meanings that are conveyed by specific words or phrases in a statement that are not part of the statement's literal meaning but are instead tied to the conventional use of those terms. This form of implicature relies on established linguistic conventions rather than the context or intentions of the speaker, helping to clarify what is meant in communication without altering the core meaning of the statements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conventional implicature arises from specific terms in language, such as 'but' or 'even', that carry additional meanings beyond the literal interpretation.
2. Unlike conversational implicature, which relies heavily on context and speaker intentions, conventional implicature is more stable and predictable since it’s tied to linguistic conventions.
3. An example of conventional implicature is in the statement 'John managed to win the race, even though he was injured,' where 'even though' implies a contrast between expectations and reality.
4. Conventional implicature can help differentiate between what is said and what is implied, thereby aiding clearer communication.
5. The recognition of conventional implicature plays an important role in understanding how language functions in philosophical discussions about meaning and communication.

Review Questions

• How does conventional implicature differ from conversational implicature?
  • Conventional implicature differs from conversational implicature mainly in how meanings are derived. Conventional implicature relies on established linguistic conventions associated with specific words or phrases, making its implications more stable and predictable. In contrast, conversational implicature is determined by the context of a conversation and the intentions of the speaker, which can vary widely based on circumstances and assumptions. This distinction highlights how different layers of meaning operate within language.
• Discuss the role of Grice's Maxims in understanding conventional implicature.
  • Grice's Maxims help contextualize how communicative efficiency influences both conventional and conversational implicatures. While Grice’s Maxims primarily guide speakers toward clarity, relevance, and informativeness in conversation, they also indirectly support our understanding of conventional implicatures. The maxims serve as a backdrop against which speakers can utilize conventional terms to convey additional meanings effectively. Thus, recognizing these maxims helps clarify when a speaker is relying on conventional implications versus generating new meanings based on conversational context.
• Evaluate the implications of recognizing conventional implicature for analyzing philosophical arguments about language and meaning.
  • Recognizing conventional implicature significantly impacts the analysis of philosophical arguments concerning language and meaning by revealing how much our understanding of statements is influenced by linguistic conventions. It shows that communication often involves layers of meaning that extend beyond literal interpretations, necessitating deeper examination in philosophical discourse. By appreciating these complexities, philosophers can better understand issues related to truth, reference, and communication breakdowns, ultimately enriching discussions about meaning and interpretation in language.

Related terms

implicature: Implicature is a general term for any implied meaning that arises in conversation, which includes both conventional implicature and conversational implicature.

Grice's Maxims: Grice's Maxims are guidelines proposed by philosopher H.P. Grice that outline how people are expected to communicate effectively, which can help determine whether implicatures are conversational or conventional.

presupposition: Presupposition is an implicit assumption about the world or background belief relating to an utterance, which must be accepted for a statement to be meaningful.