Dell Hymes

Definition

Dell Hymes was an influential American linguist and anthropologist known for his work in the field of sociolinguistics, particularly for introducing the concept of 'communicative competence.' His ideas emphasized that understanding a language involves not just grammatical knowledge but also the social context in which communication occurs. Hymes' work is critical in exploring how language functions within specific cultural frameworks and how people navigate various communicative situations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dell Hymes developed the notion of communicative competence in response to Noam Chomsky's theory of linguistic competence, highlighting the importance of context in language use.
2. Hymes proposed the 'Hymes' Model,' which outlines several components that contribute to effective communication, including the appropriateness of language in different situations.
3. His work has significant implications for education, particularly in teaching language skills that encompass both linguistic and social aspects.
4. Hymes emphasized the role of cultural norms in shaping how people communicate, stressing that language is deeply intertwined with social identity.
5. He contributed to the field of ethnography of communication, which studies how people communicate within their cultural contexts and the meanings they derive from their interactions.

Review Questions

• How did Dell Hymes' concept of communicative competence challenge previous notions of language understanding?
  • Dell Hymes' concept of communicative competence expanded the traditional view of language understanding by emphasizing that it is not enough to know grammar and vocabulary. He argued that effective communication also requires knowledge of the social context, including norms, values, and roles associated with language use. This approach challenged earlier theories that focused solely on linguistic competence, illustrating that communication is shaped by cultural and situational factors.
• In what ways does Hymes' model influence contemporary approaches to language education?
  • Hymes' model has greatly influenced contemporary approaches to language education by encouraging a more holistic understanding of communication. Educators now focus not only on teaching grammar and vocabulary but also on developing students' abilities to navigate various social contexts effectively. This means incorporating cultural insights and practical scenarios into lessons, enabling students to communicate appropriately in diverse situations, thereby enhancing their overall communicative competence.
• Evaluate the relevance of Hymes' ideas about speech communities in today's globalized world, considering language diversity and cultural exchange.
  • Hymes' ideas about speech communities remain highly relevant in today's globalized world, where language diversity and cultural exchange are prevalent. Understanding speech communities allows us to appreciate how different groups use language distinctively based on their cultural backgrounds and social contexts. As migration and technology continue to bring diverse populations together, recognizing these variations fosters better communication and mutual respect among individuals from different linguistic backgrounds. Hymes' emphasis on context helps us navigate intercultural interactions more effectively, highlighting the significance of being aware of social norms and expectations in varied communicative settings.

Related terms

Communicative Competence: The ability to use language correctly and appropriately in various social contexts, a key concept introduced by Dell Hymes.

Sociolinguistics: The study of how language varies and changes in social groups, examining the relationship between language and social factors.

Speech Community: A group of people who share a common language or dialect and have similar communicative practices.