Metalanguage - Language and its functions (Chapter 1)

Language

A meaning-making system that allows humans to communicate with each other

What are the 6 factors to consider when exploring the functions of language?

Context - when/where

Message - what

Addresser

Addressee

Contact - How (means of communication)

Code - How (common language)

What are Jakobson's 6 functions of language?

Referential, emotive, conative, poetic, phatic and metalinguistic

Referential Function

Statement of information OR fact. Language is still objective and declarative even if information is false. Describes a literal or abstract situation.

E.g. The sky is not blue; his heart is broken

Emotive Function

Expression of emotion and desire (typically addresser's), real or not. Includes highly emotive interjections.

E.g. Argh, you stepped on my toe; that was a fantastic movie; I'm not looking forward to the dentist

Conative Function

Involves directions, questions or commands designed to make addressee react. Can have intention to persuade without clear directive, such as 'It's chilly in here' - can have referential or conative function.

Poetic Function

Focuses on the message's formation and phrasing. Uses things like rhyming, alliteration, cadence and metaphor

Phatic Function

Serves a social function and is somewhat meaningless outside social context. Includes greetings, pleasantries, discourse markers and farewells.

Metalinguistic Function

Describes language itself. Allows addressor to check they've been understood or used the right code or jargon

E.g. Is a potato cake the same as a potato scallop?