Context, Purpose & Intent, Register

Flashcards based on the concepts of communication, context, and language use as discussed in the lecture notes.

What influences the choice of language in communication?

The choice of language in communication is influenced by the relationship between participants, the situation context, and the mode of communication used (writing, speaking, or signing).

What is the term for the immediate circumstance where discourse takes place?

Situational context is defined as the immediate circumstances in which discourse occurs, impacting how language is used and interpreted.

What elements can determine the field of a text?

The field of a text can be determined by various elements such as topic, genre, theme, and lexemes, which establish the context of the communication.

What are the modes of communication mentioned?

The modes of communication refer to the forms through which information is conveyed, which include written, spoken, and electronic formats.

How does cultural context influence communication?

Cultural context affects communication by shaping the values, attitudes, and beliefs of the participants, thereby influencing their behavior and language use.

What is the tenor in communication?

In communication, tenor refers to the relationship dynamics between the participants involved in the discourse, including their roles and level of formality.

What is a key purpose of using colloquial language in conversation?

Using colloquial language in conversation primarily aims to create a jovial mood and strengthen the bond between participants.

What is the intended outcome in the context of communication?

The intended outcome of communication can include aims such as entertaining, instructing, clarifying, or establishing authority.

In a job interview, what is the purpose of showcasing related qualities?

The purpose of showcasing related qualities in a job interview is to reassure the employer that the candidate is the best fit for the position.

How does one build rapport with the interviewer?

Building rapport with the interviewer involves expressing relevant qualities, addressing any concerns or problems, and establishing a personal connection.

What Is Field?

Field refers to the topic, genre, or theme of a text, establishing the core subject matter of the communication.

Mode

Mode refers to the method or style of communication used in a text, which can be spoken, written, or visual.

Setting

Setting denotes when or where the discourse takes place, influencing the context of communication.

Text type

Text type defines the form of communication used, such as conversation, news article, or text message.

Tenor

Tenor refers to the participants involved in communication, their relationships, and the degree of formality, encompassing the connection between the language maker and receiver.

Cultural Context

Cultural context refers to the social and historical situations that influence communication, encompassing shared beliefs, values, and practices of a group.

how customs, societal norms influence how the people converse

e.g. being direct, formal (Social/ prestige disparity cause them to do so)

Purpose & Intent

Purpose & Intent indicate what the text and the author hope to achieve through the communication.

Purpose

Purpose defines the reason for which the text was created, such as entertaining, instructing, or clarifying.

Abstract Reasons For Purpose?

Abstract reasons for purpose include expectations of politeness that need to be met, demonstrating authority, or reinstating social hierarchy and distance.

in workplace - boss calls meeting + sets rules - reinstates authoriyt

What the five elements of situational context?

Field, Mode, Setting, Text Type, Tenor

What is the difference between situational and cultural context?

Situational conext is a reflection of the current circumstance of the discourse, while cultural context is in relation to the pre-existing cultural beliefs and norms held by participants which may alter the discourse.

Social Distance & Status

Level of intimacy/dstance between speakers

Power or prestige between speakers

These factors can affect langauge choice or prosodic features

Authorial Intent - Prepardness

• High preparedness → necessary for formal, high-stakes, or widely disseminated texts (e.g., newspaper editorials, speeches, academic articles).

  • Requires planning, structured arguments, rhetorical devices, and careful word choice.

  • Example: Persuasive essay aiming to guilt or motivate a broad audience requires anticipating counterarguments and selecting language that maximizes impact.

• Low preparedness → sufficient for informal, spontaneous, or low-stakes communication (e.g., casual conversation, text messages, verbal arguments).

  • Less planning, simpler language, fewer rhetorical devices.

  • Example: Arguing with a housemate about dishes — the stakes are low, so sophisticated emotive or conative strategies aren’t needed.