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Functional Analysis of Language in Discourse

The document discusses functional analysis of language in discourse, focusing on how language conveys meaning, builds relationships, and serves social purposes. It categorizes language functions into macro-functions, such as emotive, directive, referential, phatic, and metalingual functions, each serving distinct roles in communication. Examples illustrate how these functions operate in various social contexts.

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4 views2 pages

Functional Analysis of Language in Discourse

The document discusses functional analysis of language in discourse, focusing on how language conveys meaning, builds relationships, and serves social purposes. It categorizes language functions into macro-functions, such as emotive, directive, referential, phatic, and metalingual functions, each serving distinct roles in communication. Examples illustrate how these functions operate in various social contexts.

Uploaded by

syedafnan164700
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF LANGUAGE IN DISCOURSE


Functional analysis of language in discourse is a method of studying language to understand how it
works in social situations. This approach examines how language is used to convey meaning, build
relationships, and achieve social purposes.

Functions of language:
Language has several functions, including conveying ideas and information, building and maintaining
relationships, and creating coherent and cohesive texts.

Language has various functions, but two primary categories are macro-functions and micro-functions.
These functions help us understand how language operates in different contexts and levels of
communication.

1. MACRO FUNCTION

Macro-functions of language refer to the broader, more general purposes that language serves in social
contexts. These functions are often related to the overall social goals or purposes of communication.

There functions are then derived into many different functions

1. Emotive Function

The emotive function of language involves expressing emotions, attitudes, and personal opinions. This
function helps speakers convey their feelings, emotions, and personality.

Examples:

 "I love this restaurant!" (Expressing enthusiasm)


 "I'm so angry with him!" (Expressing anger)
 "This is the best day ever!" (Expressing happiness)

2. Directive Function

The directive function of language involves influencing others, giving instructions, or making requests.
This function helps speakers achieve their goals, persuade others, or get things done.

Examples:

 "Please pass the salt." (Making a request)


 "Stop talking and listen!" (Giving an instruction)
 "You should try this new restaurant." (Making a suggestion)

3. Referential Function

The referential function of language involves providing information, defining, or describing. This function
helps speakers convey knowledge, facts, and data.

Examples:

 "The capital of France is Paris." (Providing information)


 "A smartphone is a handheld device..." (Defining)

JIYA NOTES
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 "This book is about artificial intelligence." (Describing)

4. Phatic Function

The phatic function of language involves establishing or maintaining social relationships, showing
friendliness or politeness. This function helps speakers build rapport, create a positive atmosphere, and
avoid conflict. Examples:

 "How are you?" (Showing interest)


 "Nice weather, isn't it?" (Making small talk)
 "Thank you so much for your help." (Expressing gratitude)

5. Metalingual Function

The metalingual function of language involves commenting on language itself, defining, or explaining.
This function helps speakers clarify meaning, provide feedback, or discuss language-related issues.
Examples:

 "What do you mean by that?" (Seeking clarification)


 "I don't understand this word." (Asking for definition)
 "Your pronunciation is excellent!" (Providing feedback)

JIYA NOTES

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