The Implicit Interpersonal Meaning of Linguistic Items

Abstract

The meaning of linguistic items may include an interpersonal or evaluative component which derives from its typical use. This paper supports the view that words cannot be defined only in terms of denotation, since that would imply neglecting the interpersonal function of language. The phraseology of an item (i.e. its typical lexico-syntactic environment) may confer an implicit meaning to this item. Additionally, the typical discourse function of an item also contributes to its meaning. This paper explores the concept of implicit meaning and looks at different types of implications and presuppositions that an item may convey.