Particularized conversational implicature

Definition

Particularized conversational implicature refers to the meaning that is inferred in a specific conversational context based on the utterances made by speakers. It relies on shared knowledge and assumptions between the participants, where the speaker implies something beyond the literal meaning of their words, and the listener understands this based on contextual clues. This type of implicature is unique to each situation and can vary widely depending on factors like tone, setting, and the relationship between speakers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Particularized conversational implicature can change drastically with variations in context, highlighting the importance of situational cues in communication.
2. This form of implicature often relies on the assumption that the listener has certain background knowledge or shared experiences with the speaker.
3. Unlike generalized implicature, which applies broadly across situations, particularized implicature is unique to specific conversations.
4. Understanding particularized conversational implicature requires not only linguistic competence but also social awareness and inference skills.
5. Examples of this implicature can include sarcasm or indirect requests, where the intended meaning differs significantly from the literal interpretation.

Review Questions

• How does particularized conversational implicature differ from generalized conversational implicature?
  • Particularized conversational implicature is specific to a given context and relies on shared knowledge and assumptions between speakers. In contrast, generalized conversational implicature holds true across many situations and does not depend on particular contexts. Understanding these differences highlights how meaning can shift based on situational cues and the relationships between conversation participants.
• Discuss how Grice's Maxims relate to the concept of particularized conversational implicature in everyday communication.
  • Grice's Maxims provide a framework for understanding how people communicate effectively and can help explain particularized conversational implicature. For example, if a speaker flouts the maxim of quantity by providing less information than expected, they may imply something more significant through their choice of words. Recognizing when these maxims are observed or violated helps listeners grasp the intended meaning beyond literal interpretations in specific contexts.
• Evaluate the role of context in shaping particularized conversational implicature and its implications for effective communication.
  • Context plays a crucial role in shaping particularized conversational implicature because it influences how messages are understood. Factors such as tone, setting, prior knowledge, and speaker-listener relationships all contribute to interpreting meaning. Effective communication hinges on both parties being aware of these contextual elements; misinterpretations can arise when one party lacks relevant background information or fails to pick up on subtle contextual cues. Thus, understanding context is essential for accurately grasping implied meanings in conversation.

Related terms

conversational implicature: A general term for what is suggested in an utterance, even though it is not explicitly expressed. It includes both particularized and generalized implicatures.

Grice's Maxims: A set of conversational principles proposed by philosopher H.P. Grice that participants typically follow to communicate effectively, including maxims of quantity, quality, relation, and manner.

contextual meaning: The significance of words or phrases that is derived from the specific situation or context in which they are used, often influencing how messages are interpreted.