Pragmatics (AQA A-Level English Language): Flashcards

What speakers genuinely intend to communicate through language

Actions we perform through language (promise, apologise, request)

Using words to soften statements & make them less certain

Supportive sounds/words listeners use to encourage speakers

Desire to be liked, appreciated & approved of by others

Wish to act freely without imposition or control from others

Utterance/action that potentially damages either type of face

Meanings we infer from what seems to be rule-breaking

Making requests/commands indirectly through implied meaning

Brief acknowledgements like 'mm', 'yeah' that show engagement