Coherence Relations in Discourse

Discourse Connections and Coherence Relations

Introduction to Discourse Connections

• Discourse connections are integral to understanding how texts are structured and interpreted, showcasing coherence relations that bind different segments of discourse together. Coherence refers to the logical flow and connection of ideas within a text, either through explicit markers, such as connectives, or through the reader's interpretation that relies on prior knowledge or context outside the text.

Types of Coherence Relations (Based on Mann & Thompson 1986)

1. Semantic Relations

• Semantic Relations encapsulate the meanings and relationships between statements without necessarily implying causation. They can be subdivided further into causal and non-causal connections, where causal relations emphasize cause-effect dynamics, and non-causal relations observe other connections.

• Causal: This category points to a cause-effect relationship, wherein the outcome is influenced by an identifiable cause, situated typically outside human control.

• Examples:

  • "The sun was shining; consequently, the temperature rose."

  • Connective Example: "The flowers bloomed because it was spring."

• Non-Causal: This category is divided into several specific relationships:

• Sequence: Establishes a chronological order of events.

  • Example: "First, I woke up; then, I had breakfast."

• Reason: Indicates a human will behind decisions and actions.

  • Example: "He stayed home; that’s why he missed the party."

• Elaboration: Provides additional detail to enrich the prior point discussed.

  • Example: "She won the race, which was particularly impressive given her training."

• Purpose: Specifies the aims behind actions undertaken.

  • Example: "I insulated the roof to lower my energy bill and improve comfort."

• Background: Furnishes necessary context that supplements understanding.

  • Example: "We bought a new oven; it took too long to cook in our old one, which was inefficient."

• Condition: Stipulates specific conditions that must be satisfied for the following clause to hold true.

  • Example: "If it rains, we will cancel the picnic; otherwise, we will proceed as planned."

• Antithesis: Draws contrasts between differing ideas or actions, showing complexity in viewpoints.

  • Example: "I love chocolate; however, I prefer fruit when looking for a healthy snack."

2. Non-Semantic Relations

• Non-Semantic Relations shift the focus from meaning to structural contexts that outline how discussions function. Characteristics include:

• Circumstance: Presents background context that helps explain the framework of the discourse.

• Solution: Provides resolutions or answers to issues raised in the previous discourse.

• Concession: Introduces counterarguments or exceptions to the claims made, presenting a balanced viewpoint.

Analyzing Discourse Connections

• An effective analysis of coherence requires the identification of these relations within any given text, significantly enhancing comprehension and interpretation.

• Example Analysis of Relations:

• Background: "John wanted to visit his girlfriend; however, he was short on funds, which influenced his decision."

  • Context establishes the reason for John's actions.

• Concession: "The car wouldn’t start; thus, the suggestion came up to take the bus instead."

  • Conflict is revealed in the transition from expectation to reality.

• Sequence: "The last bus had already left; consequently, we had to endure a long, dull walk."

  • The sequential nature of events explains the outcome clearly.

Effects of Discourse Markers

• Effective use of discourse markers can significantly impact reading dynamics, influencing both the speed of reading and the clarity of comprehension.

• Reading Speed: Readers often find that connectives streamline understanding, particularly in complex texts—different constructions (with connectives versus those without) have been shown to affect reading pace positively.

• Text Comprehension: Research indicates that using connectives and other discourse markers generally leads to improvements in reader comprehension, allowing for a more profound understanding of the relationships between ideas presented in the text.

Practical Applications

• Practicing discourse relations can be achieved through assignments requiring students to analyze real text samples for coherence.

• Assignments for Practice: Identify coherence relations within assigned articles or texts, focusing on how they function in context using the analytical framework laid out by Mann & Thompson, thereby enhancing skills in textual interpretation and analytical writing prowess.

Summary

• The study of coherence relations in discourse is essential, as it governs how texts are constructed and comprehended through intertwining semantic and pragmatic elements.

• Mastering the effective use of connectives is crucial for enhancing clarity within texts and fostering reader engagement, marking their importance in both written and spoken communication.