Conventional implicature

Definition

Conventional implicature refers to the additional meaning that is associated with a particular expression or phrase, which is not derived from its literal meaning but is understood based on the conventional use of that expression within a language. This type of implicature is often tied to specific words or phrases that carry implications regardless of the context in which they are used. It helps in understanding how language conveys more than just the surface meaning of sentences, contributing to effective communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conventional implicature operates independently from the context in which it is used, meaning its implications are recognized by speakers of a language without needing situational cues.
2. Certain connectives, like 'but' and 'even', often trigger conventional implicatures by suggesting contrasts or unexpected information.
3. Unlike conversational implicatures, which can change based on context and intention, conventional implicatures remain stable across different situations.
4. Understanding conventional implicature is crucial for grasping nuances in meaning that affect interpretations of politeness, contrast, and emphasis in communication.
5. Grice's Maxims of conversation play a role in how speakers navigate conventional implicature, influencing expectations about what is implied but not explicitly stated.

Review Questions

• How does conventional implicature differ from conversational implicature in terms of dependence on context?
  • Conventional implicature is independent of context and relies solely on the conventional meaning associated with specific expressions or phrases. In contrast, conversational implicature depends heavily on the context of the conversation and the intentions of the speaker. While conventional implicatures maintain their meaning across various contexts, conversational implicatures can change depending on social cues and situational factors.
• What role do connectives like 'but' and 'even' play in establishing conventional implicatures within sentences?
  • Connectives like 'but' and 'even' play a significant role in establishing conventional implicatures by signaling relationships between ideas that go beyond their literal meanings. For example, using 'but' implies a contrast between two statements, suggesting that what follows may be unexpected or contrary to what preceded it. This creates an added layer of meaning that listeners recognize based on their understanding of these connectives and their conventional uses in language.
• Evaluate the importance of recognizing conventional implicature in enhancing effective communication and comprehension.
  • Recognizing conventional implicature is crucial for effective communication because it allows speakers and listeners to understand subtle meanings and nuances that are not directly stated. This understanding helps individuals interpret politeness, emphasis, and contrasts in conversations, enriching the overall communicative experience. Moreover, being aware of these implications aids in navigating social interactions more successfully by aligning with expected conversational norms and fostering clearer exchanges between speakers.

Related terms

Presupposition: Presupposition is an assumption or belief implied by the speaker that must be accepted as true for the conversation to make sense.

Speech acts: Speech acts are communicative actions performed through speaking or writing, such as asserting, questioning, requesting, or commanding.

Implicature: Implicature is the aspect of meaning that goes beyond the literal interpretation of a statement, encompassing both conventional and conversational implicatures.