chapter5 formal vs informal language.pptVIP

Chapter 5 Formal vs Informal Language The Interpersonal Function of Language Tenors of discourse Personal Tenor and Degrees of Formality 1.The Interpersonal Function of Language Three functions of language (a review): the ideational or referential function the interpersonal function the textual function. Many people notice the ideational or referential function of language. (when talking about objects, persons and ideas, to name and define them, etc.), but tend to ignore other functions of language. Consider the following texts: ---Hello. How are you? ---Just fine, thanks. And you? ---You swine! Are these texts related to the ideational function of language? Language shapes, defines and identifies roles and relationships of people. Or to put it other way, the addressers usually speak in accordance with the situation, his/her role and status. 2.Tenors of discourse it is the reflection of the relationship between participants in the situation, their roles and status. The participant relations that determine the tenor of discourse range through varying degrees of permanence. Most temporary: at a party, on a train Well-established: parents and child Intermediate: teacher and pupil labor and management The number and types of roles to be played by both addresser and addressee are on a large part determined by the structure of society. the language an individual uses will also redefine each situation. e.g. How do you do? -- relationship as that of stranger to stranger Hello, glad to meet you again. --acquaintances 3. Personal Tenor and Degree of Formality Formality refers to the way in which the style of language will vary in appropriateness according to the social context: the occasion and the relationship between addresser and addressee(s). Personal tenor expresses the various roles assumed by the participants and the degree of formality of their relationship. Address forms Address forms are th