Generalized conversational implicature

Definition

Generalized conversational implicature refers to a type of implied meaning in conversation that arises from the use of certain expressions or phrases, rather than relying on specific context. This implicature is typically based on general principles of communication and can be inferred by listeners without needing additional contextual information. It differs from particularized implicatures, which depend on specific situational contexts to convey meaning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Generalized conversational implicatures can be understood through Grice's Maxims, particularly the Maxim of Quantity, which suggests speakers provide enough information without being overly verbose.
2. They arise from conventional uses of language that most speakers understand and accept as common knowledge, making them easier to recognize in everyday conversations.
3. Examples include statements like 'Some cats are pets' implying that not all cats are pets, which is understood as a generalized implicature based on the use of the word 'some'.
4. Listeners often rely on generalized conversational implicatures to fill in gaps in information during conversations, allowing for more efficient communication.
5. They play a significant role in pragmatic reasoning, where understanding implied meanings helps clarify intentions behind statements without needing explicit details.

Review Questions

• How do generalized conversational implicatures differ from particularized implicatures in terms of context and listener interpretation?
  • Generalized conversational implicatures differ from particularized implicatures primarily in their reliance on context. Generalized implicatures can be inferred based on common language conventions and are understood by listeners regardless of specific situational context. In contrast, particularized implicatures depend heavily on the surrounding context and require additional information for the listener to grasp the implied meaning accurately.
• Discuss the role of Grice's Maxims in understanding generalized conversational implicature and provide an example illustrating this connection.
  • Grice's Maxims play a crucial role in understanding generalized conversational implicature by outlining the expectations for effective communication. For example, the Maxim of Quantity suggests that speakers should provide sufficient detail without unnecessary elaboration. In a statement like 'Many students passed the exam', it implies that not all students passed, demonstrating how generalized conversational implicature is derived from language use while adhering to these cooperative principles.
• Evaluate the implications of generalized conversational implicature on effective communication within diverse social contexts.
  • Evaluating the implications of generalized conversational implicature reveals its importance in fostering effective communication across diverse social contexts. By relying on shared understandings and conventional meanings, speakers can convey complex ideas succinctly while allowing listeners to infer meanings without confusion. This efficiency is especially valuable in multicultural interactions, where varying interpretations may arise; thus, a solid grasp of these implicatures can significantly enhance mutual understanding and reduce miscommunication.

Related terms

Scalar implicature: A type of generalized conversational implicature that arises from the use of scalar terms like 'some' versus 'all', indicating a stronger or weaker commitment to a statement based on the scale.

Grice's Maxims: A set of conversational principles proposed by philosopher H.P. Grice, which include quantity, quality, relation, and manner, guiding how speakers should communicate effectively.

Cooperative Principle: The assumption that participants in a conversation typically work together to achieve mutual understanding and communicate effectively, often leading to implicatures.