Declarative

Definition

A declarative is a type of sentence or speech act that makes a statement or expresses an assertion, typically conveying information that can be either true or false. This form is fundamental in communication as it serves to relay facts, opinions, or beliefs, allowing speakers to share their thoughts clearly. In conversational contexts, declaratives also play a significant role in speech acts, where they can implicate further meaning or intentions beyond their literal content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Declaratives are often the most common type of sentence found in everyday language, used to convey straightforward information.
2. They can express various tones and moods depending on context, such as stating facts or sharing opinions.
3. In conversations, declaratives can carry implicatures, meaning they might suggest additional meanings or assumptions beyond their literal statements.
4. Declaratives can be followed by other speech acts, such as requests for clarification or further elaboration from listeners.
5. In logical terms, declarative sentences often serve as propositions that can be evaluated for truthfulness in discussions.

Review Questions

• How do declarative sentences function within speech act theory to convey meaning beyond their literal interpretation?
  • Declarative sentences serve as assertive speech acts that communicate information but can also imply further meanings based on context. For example, saying 'It's cold in here' might be a simple statement but could also imply a request to close a window. This additional layer of meaning is critical in understanding how speakers use declaratives to convey intent and influence responses in conversation.
• Compare declarative sentences with interrogative sentences in terms of their roles in communication and how they affect conversational dynamics.
  • Declarative sentences state information and express beliefs, whereas interrogative sentences are designed to elicit information by asking questions. This difference affects conversational dynamics significantly; while declaratives can affirm or challenge ideas, interrogatives invite responses and create opportunities for dialogue. Both forms interact in conversation where declaratives can lead into questions for clarification or elaboration.
• Evaluate the importance of declarative sentences in shaping conversational implicature and the listener's interpretation of speaker intent.
  • Declarative sentences are vital in shaping conversational implicature because they provide the foundational statements upon which further interpretations are built. The listener often draws conclusions about the speaker's intentions based on the content and context of the declarative. For instance, a speaker saying 'I love pizza' not only shares a preference but may also imply a desire to eat pizza together. This evaluative process influences how conversations unfold and reflects the complexity of human communication.

Related terms

Assertive: A speech act that conveys information and expresses the speaker's belief about the truth of a proposition.

Interrogative: A type of sentence used to ask questions and seek information, contrasting with declaratives that state facts.

Speech Act Theory: A theory in linguistics that studies how utterances can perform actions, such as making promises, giving orders, or making statements.