Table of contents
Page
Topic name
No.
Discourse
2
Definition
Discourse serving multiple functions
Informative
Expressive
Directive 2&3
Ceremonial
Performative
Phatic function of language
The forms of discourse
Narrative
Description
4&5
Argumentative
Persuasive
Expository
References 5
1
Discourse
Originally the word “discourse” comes from Latin word “discursus” means “conversation or
speech”.
In linguistics, a unit of language longer than a single sentence is called discourse.
Verbally interchange of ideas especially conversation.
In literature, discourse means speech or writing, normally longer than sentences, which deals with
a certain subject formally.
e.g. two politicians are talking about current events.
Discourse serving multiple functions:
The Functions of Language means its purpose, what it does and its uses.
1: Informative language:
• A function in which one uses language to make statements, to communicate about
information.
• Language is used to tell the facts, to give information about something.
These sentences have a truth value; that is the sentences are either true or false.
Example: “logic is the study of correct reasoning”
2: Expressive language function:
• Language is used to reveal something about the feelings and attitudes of the speaker.
• The expression of emotions, feelings or attitudes.
Two main aspects of this function are generally noted:
(1) Evoking certain feelings and (2) Expressing feelings.
Example: I am very happy or I spent a wonderful vacation. We can see from the previous examples
that they reflex the feelings of the speaker or the writer.
2
3: Directive language function:
• The directive function are commands and requests.
• Used for the purpose of causing.
• Directive language is not normally considered true or false.
Example: “Shut the door “or” Close the windows”.
4: The ceremonial function:
• Ceremonially is used more literally, to describe an action that is actually part of a
ceremony.
Example: "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here together as a witness of marriage ceremony
so…….
5: Performative function of language:
• Language which performs the action of reports.
Example: "I do" in the marriage ceremony and the use of performative verbs such as "accept,"
"apologize," "congratulate," and "promise."
6: Phatic function of language:
• Language is used for establishing an atmosphere or maintaining social contact between the
speakers.
Example; greetings, farewells, small talk. For example, when a person asks “How are you today?”
3
The forms of discourse:
Forms of discourse are also known as rhetorical modes; are types of speaking and writing.
There are five main forms of discourse.
1. Narrative
2. Descriptive
3. Argumentative
4. Persuasive
5. Expository
Narrative:
Narrative writing involves telling a story (narrating). Narration involves several features, such as:
• Point of view (first person and third person)
• Characters
• Setting
• Plot
• Conflict
• Resolution
Descriptive:
Descriptive writing features descriptive words/phrases and sensory images.
An effective piece of descriptive writing should make the reader feel as if he or she is experiencing
what is being described (by using five senses: smell, taste, touch, hear and sight).
Argumentative:
Argumentative writing/speaking is similar to persuasive writing/speaking. However, the argument
is put forward in a logical manner and is often supported by facts.
Persuasive techniques are often used in argument.
4
Persuasive:
The purpose of persuasive writing/speaking is to convince the readers/listeners to change their
mode of thinking or to persuade them to take a specific action.
Persuasive techniques are often used in:
• Advertisements
• Argumentative writing
• Political campaigns
Expository:
The purpose of expository writing or exposition, is to deliver information about an issue, subject,
method or idea.
Types of expository writing include:
• Analogy
• Analysis
• Cause and effect
• Classification
• Comparison and contrast
• Definition
• Examples
References:
hhtps://philosophy./[Link]/logic/form_lang.html
[Link]
hhtps://[Link]/academy/lesson/[Link]
Discourse PPT slides by Keisha Parris
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