Discourse deixis

Definition

Discourse deixis refers to the use of expressions that indicate the relationship of a phrase or utterance to the ongoing discourse. It helps to specify parts of the spoken or written text in relation to the context in which they are produced, such as 'this', 'that', 'here', and 'there'. Understanding discourse deixis is crucial for interpreting meaning in conversation and text, as it connects language directly to the discourse structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Discourse deixis is used to anchor the meaning of statements within the context of the ongoing communication, helping listeners or readers understand what is being referenced.
2. Examples of discourse deixis include terms like 'this chapter', 'in my previous statement', or 'as mentioned earlier', which point to specific parts of the discourse.
3. Discourse deixis plays a crucial role in maintaining coherence in a conversation, as it allows speakers to refer back to prior statements without needing to repeat them.
4. It can also involve non-verbal cues such as gestures or changes in intonation that help clarify which part of the discourse is being referenced.
5. Understanding discourse deixis is important for both language learners and linguists, as it provides insights into how people manage reference and coherence in communication.

Review Questions

• How does discourse deixis contribute to understanding coherence in a conversation?
  • Discourse deixis contributes to coherence by allowing speakers to refer back to previous parts of their speech or writing without repetition. For example, when someone says 'as I mentioned earlier', they rely on discourse deixis to connect their current statement to an earlier one, helping listeners track the flow of ideas. This linking creates a clearer narrative and assists in maintaining context throughout the conversation.
• In what ways do expressions of discourse deixis enhance clarity in written texts?
  • Expressions of discourse deixis enhance clarity in written texts by providing specific references to sections of the text itself. Phrases like 'in this section' or 'the following chapter' guide readers through the material and indicate where they should focus their attention. This not only helps readers navigate complex arguments but also ensures they can follow along with the author's line of thought without confusion.
• Evaluate the impact of misunderstanding discourse deixis on effective communication.
  • Misunderstanding discourse deixis can lead to significant breakdowns in communication. For instance, if a speaker uses an expression like 'as discussed previously' but listeners are unaware of that prior discussion, it creates confusion. The lack of shared context may result in misinterpretation of messages and hinder effective dialogue. Furthermore, this can affect collaborative efforts, where clear referencing is essential for shared understanding and progress.

Related terms

deictic expressions: Words or phrases that require contextual information to convey meaning, including person, time, place, and discourse deixis.

anaphora: A linguistic term for when a word refers back to another word or phrase earlier in the discourse, often using pronouns like 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

cataphora: A linguistic phenomenon where a word refers to something mentioned later in the discourse, creating anticipation for its meaning.