6.4 Examples of Pragmatics
Understanding Pragmatics Through Real-World Examples
Pragmatics is the study of how context influences the interpretation of meaning in communication. Unlike semantics, which focuses on literal meanings, pragmatics examines how speakers convey—and listeners infer—intentions based on situational, social, and linguistic cues. Below are three detailed examples demonstrating how pragmatics shapes everyday communication.
1. “How are you?” – The Social Greeting vs. Literal Inquiry
Literal Meaning: A direct question about a person’s well-being, potentially inviting a detailed response about their physical or emotional state.
Pragmatic Interpretation:
In most casual encounters (e.g., between coworkers or acquaintances), this question functions as a polite greeting rather than a genuine request for information. The expected response is a brief, positive reply like “Good, thanks! How about you?” rather than an in-depth account of one’s struggles.
Key Pragmatic Principles:
Speech Act Theory: The utterance serves as a phatic expression (social bonding) rather than a true inquiry.
Grice’s Cooperative Principle: Listeners assume the speaker is being relevant and concise, so they respond accordingly.
Cultural Variation: In some cultures (e.g., the U.S.), this is purely ritualistic, whereas in others (e.g., Russia), it may invite a more honest response.
2. “Luggage must be carried on the escalator.” – Contextual Meaning in Public Signs
Literal Meaning: A command implying that all luggage in the airport must be placed on escalators at all times (an absurd interpretation).
Pragmatic Interpretation:
In an airport setting, the sign is understood as a safety directive: “If you are using the escalator, you must carry your luggage (instead of leaving it unattended or blocking others).” It does not apply to people not using the escalator.
Key Pragmatic Principles:
Deixis: The implied subject is narrowed by the physical context (only those near the escalator).
Relevance Theory: The audience filters meaning based on the most plausible real-world scenario (safety rules, not illogical demands).
Presupposition: The sign assumes shared knowledge (e.g., escalators require caution with bags).
3. “I have two sons.” – How Prior Context Shapes Implication
Literal Meaning: A factual statement about the speaker having two male children.
Pragmatic Implications (Varying by Context):
Scenario A: If asked, “Do you have any children?” → The response implies the speaker has only two children (both sons).
Scenario B: If asked, “Do you have any sons?” → The response confirms two sons but leaves open the possibility of other children (e.g., daughters).
Key Pragmatic Principles:
Conversational Maxims (Grice): Listeners infer meaning based on what is not said (e.g., omitting daughters suggests there are none in Scenario A).
Scalar Implicature: “Two sons” may imply “exactly two” (if the question was broad) or “at least two” (if the question was specific).
Shared Knowledge: The speaker’s intent depends on the listener’s prior question.