Performative utterance

Definition

A performative utterance is a statement that not only conveys information but also performs an action simply by being spoken. These utterances are tied to the context in which they are made, meaning that they require specific conditions to fulfill their intended function, such as promises, orders, or declarations. The concept highlights how language can do things in addition to just stating facts or conveying meaning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Performative utterances rely on social conventions; their effectiveness is based on shared understanding between the speaker and the listener.
2. Common examples of performative utterances include vows ('I do'), commands ('Close the door'), and declarations ('I hereby pronounce you husband and wife').
3. The concept was popularized by philosopher J.L. Austin, who distinguished between constative utterances (which describe facts) and performative utterances (which enact actions).
4. Not all statements are performative; they must meet specific criteria to be considered effective, such as being made in the right context and having appropriate authority.
5. Failure to meet these conditions can lead to misunderstandings or ineffective communication, such as if a non-official person tries to declare someone married.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of performative utterance differ from traditional views of language as merely conveying information?
  • The concept of performative utterance shifts the focus from language as a tool for conveying information to language as a means of action. While traditional views emphasize the descriptive nature of language, performative utterances show that statements can enact changes in reality simply by being spoken. This illustrates that language is not just about sharing facts but also about performing actions that have tangible effects in social contexts.
• In what ways can understanding performative utterances enhance our comprehension of speech acts in everyday communication?
  • Understanding performative utterances enriches our grasp of speech acts by highlighting how context influences meaning and effectiveness. By recognizing that certain statements perform actions rather than just relay information, we can better appreciate the nuances in conversations where intention and context play critical roles. This understanding allows for more effective communication and reduces potential misunderstandings in social interactions.
• Evaluate the implications of performative utterances for interpersonal relationships and social structures.
  • The implications of performative utterances extend deeply into interpersonal relationships and social structures by emphasizing the power dynamics at play when language is used. For instance, a person's authority or position can determine whether their words carry weight—like a judge pronouncing a verdict versus an informal opinion expressed among friends. This highlights how language shapes social interactions and reinforces societal norms, ultimately affecting how individuals navigate relationships based on their communicative power.

Related terms

speech act: A communicative act that can be classified based on its intended function, such as asserting, questioning, commanding, or promising.

illocutionary act:

The performance of an act in speaking, which reflects the speaker's intention behind the utterance and goes beyond its literal meaning.

contextuality: The dependence of a statement's meaning and effectiveness on the circumstances surrounding its utterance, including the speaker's intent and the audience's understanding.