CEFR Pragmatic Competence Analysis 3

Question 1

Which of the following best exemplifies an 'indirect speech act' in everyday English?

Accepted Answer

'It's cold in here.'

Answer

'It's cold in here' functions as an indirect request to close the window, conveying more than its literal propositional meaning.

Question 2

According to CEFR descriptors, at which level can learners typically 'understand a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts'?

Accepted Answer

C1

Answer

C1 descriptors include comprehension of idiomatic expressions and sensitivity to register shifts, reflecting advanced pragmatic awareness.

Question 3

Which Gricean maxim is violated when a speaker deliberately gives more information than required?

Accepted Answer

Maxim of Quantity

Answer

The Maxim of Quantity requires contributions to be as informative as required but not more, so over-informing violates this maxim.

Question 4

A learner consistently uses formal language with peers and casual language with teachers. This reflects a problem in:

Accepted Answer

Register appropriacy

Answer

Register appropriacy — matching the level of formality to the social situation and relationship — is a core component of pragmatic and sociolinguistic competence.

Question 5

In CEFR terms, 'functional competence' refers to a learner's ability to:

Accepted Answer

Use language to perform communicative functions such as requesting or narrating

Answer

Functional competence in CEFR covers the ability to use language to accomplish real communicative purposes like requesting, apologizing, or explaining.

CEFR - Common European Framework Practice Test

CEFR - Common European Framework Practice Test

CEFR Pragmatic Competence Analysis 3