ENGLISH LANGUAGE THEORIES

GRICE’S MAXIMS

examined the way people talked in conversations and how people reacted under social pressure.

GRICE’S MAXIMS EXAMPLES

QUALITY-someone says what is true

QUANTITY - each speaker says either too much or too little

RELATION- each speaker says something relevant 

MANNER- each speaker sasy something clear

HOWARD GILES

communication accommodation theory-CAT

Speakers adjust their language depending on who they are talking to

HOWARD GILES IN PRACTICE

Convergence – making your speech more like the other person’s

Divergence – making your speech less like the other person’s

JOHN SEARLE

1. Representatives (Assertives)

   • State facts, beliefs, or describe the world.

   • “It’s raining.” / “I think she’s tired.”

2. Directives

   • Try to get the listener to do something.

   • “Close the door.” / “Could you pass the salt?”

3. Commissives

   • Commit the speaker to a future course of action.

   • “I promise I’ll call you.” / “I’ll help you with that essay.”

4. Expressives

   • Express the speaker’s feelings or attitudes.

   • “I’m sorry for being late.” / “Congratulations on your results!”

5. Declarations

   • Change the reality of a situation through speech.

   • “You’re fired.” / “I now pronounce you husband and wife.”