Speech Context & Styles

Speech Context

This refers to the setting in which the communication takes place. Context helps to establish meaning and can influence what is said and how it is said. (Devito, 2005)

Intrapersonal

Refers to communication that centers on one person where the speaker acts both as the sender and the receiver.

Ex: Self-talk, meditation, reflecting/contemplating and analyzing something

Interpersonal

Refers to communication between and among people and establishes personal relationship.

Ex: A conversation with your mother, group meeting

Dyad Communication (Interpersonal)

Communication that happens between two people.

Small group (Interpersonal)

Applies to interaction involving three but not more than twelve people.

Mass communication

Refers to communication that takes place through different types of media such as: television, radio, newspapers, magazines, books, internet.

Speech Style

Refers to the form of language that the speaker uses to which is characterized by the level of formality. (Martin Joos, 1976)

Frozen Style

Also known as fixed speech, it is the highest form of communicative style which is often used in respectful situations or ceremonies. It uses the complex grammatical sentence structure and vocabulary that are only known by experts in that field.

Ex: Marriage vow, judicial sentencing, allegiance to the country or flag

Formal Style

The speaker avoids using slang terminologies; what the speaker says is something that has been prepared beforehand. It is also a one-way communication, in which the speaker simply transmits information to the listener.

Ex: News reports, delivering a speech, announcements in school

Consultative Style

This style is the standard one. Professional or mutually acceptable language is a must in this style. Most of the time one person is superior here. In this style, the listeners are allowed to give feedback.

Ex: teacher-student conversation, doctor-patient conversation, lawyer-client conversation

Informal/Casual Style

This style is common among peers and friends. Jargon, slang, street language, gay language or vulgar words are used in this style. This what you usually use in your daily conversations.

Ex: Conversation with friends, chats, phone calls

Intimate

This style is private, which occurs between or among close family members or intimate individuals. The language used in this style may not be shared or public.

Ex: Boyfriend & girlfriend conversation, parents & children