Intention

Definition

Intention refers to the purpose or goal behind a speaker's utterance, indicating what they aim to convey or achieve through their words. This concept is essential in understanding the difference between literal meaning and speaker meaning, as it highlights how context and social cues shape the interpretation of communication beyond the mere words spoken.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intention can drastically change the meaning of a statement; for instance, saying 'It's cold in here' may be a literal observation or a request to close a window depending on the speaker's intention.
2. Understanding intention is key to interpreting implicatures, which are meanings inferred from what is said rather than what is explicitly stated.
3. Different cultures may have varying interpretations of intentions based on social norms and conventions, impacting effective communication.
4. Intention plays a crucial role in politeness strategies, as speakers often adjust their language to align with their goals of maintaining harmony in conversations.
5. Misunderstandings often arise when there is a disconnect between a speaker's intention and the listener's interpretation, emphasizing the need for awareness of context.

Review Questions

• How does intention differentiate between literal meaning and speaker meaning in communication?
  • Intention serves as a bridge between literal meaning and speaker meaning by providing context to an utterance. While literal meaning focuses solely on the words spoken, intention reveals the underlying purpose behind those words. For example, if someone says 'Can you pass the salt?' the literal meaning is a question about ability, but the intention may be a polite request for action, showing how intention shapes our understanding of what is really meant.
• Discuss how understanding intention can improve effective communication across different cultures.
  • Recognizing intention is vital for effective communication, especially in cross-cultural contexts where interpretations may differ. Different cultures have unique norms regarding how intentions are expressed and understood. By being aware of these differences and considering the speaker's possible intentions rather than just their literal words, listeners can avoid misunderstandings and foster better relationships through clearer communication.
• Evaluate the implications of misinterpreting intention in a conversation and its impact on interpersonal relationships.
  • Misinterpreting intention can lead to significant misunderstandings in conversations, potentially damaging interpersonal relationships. For instance, if a person perceives a neutral comment as sarcastic due to misjudged intention, it may lead to conflict or hurt feelings. Understanding and accurately assessing intentions allows individuals to respond appropriately, maintaining trust and openness in their relationships. Thus, recognizing intention not only enriches communication but also strengthens social bonds.

Related terms

literal meaning: The explicit meaning of a word or phrase, without any interpretation or emotional nuance.

implicature: An implied meaning that arises from the context of an utterance rather than from its literal meaning, often based on shared knowledge.

pragmatics: The branch of linguistics that studies how context influences the way language is interpreted, including the speaker's intention and social factors.