Language Proficiency Pragmatics and Language Use 2

Question 1

What is deixis in language?

Accepted Answer

Words whose interpretation depends on context, such as 'here,' 'now,' and 'I'

Answer

Deixis refers to words and phrases that require contextual information to interpret, including pronouns, time expressions, and place references.

Question 2

When a speaker uses sarcasm, which of Grice's maxims is most clearly being flouted?

Accepted Answer

The Maxim of Quality

Answer

Sarcasm intentionally violates the Maxim of Quality (be truthful) to convey the opposite of what is literally said.

Question 3

Which term describes language used to establish or maintain social relationships rather than to convey factual information?

Accepted Answer

Phatic communion

Answer

Phatic communion refers to social language used for bonding purposes, such as discussing the weather or exchanging pleasantries.

Question 4

In pragmatics, what is a 'presupposition'?

Accepted Answer

A background assumption embedded in an utterance that must be true for it to make sense

Answer

Presuppositions are assumptions taken for granted within an utterance—for example, 'Have you stopped cheating?' presupposes the person cheated.

Question 5

Which concept refers to the conversational conventions that allow speakers to alternate speaking without interrupting each other?

Accepted Answer

Turn-taking

Answer

Turn-taking refers to the cues and conventions that allow speakers to take turns in an orderly way during conversation.

Language Proficiency Practice Test