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Key Functions of Language Explained

The document outlines 11 functions of language: cognitive, evaluative, affective, ideational, interpersonal, textual, directive, referential, metalinguistic, poetic, and phatic. It provides examples for each function.

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Abhishek Joshi
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8 views1 page

Key Functions of Language Explained

The document outlines 11 functions of language: cognitive, evaluative, affective, ideational, interpersonal, textual, directive, referential, metalinguistic, poetic, and phatic. It provides examples for each function.

Uploaded by

Abhishek Joshi
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

25-04-2022

1 FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE

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• Following are the significant functions of language:
• 1. Cognitive function : Expression of Ideas, Concepts and thoughts.
Eg: I vividly recall his brilliant speech.
• 2. Evaluative function: Conveying attitudes, values etc.
Eg: The administration seems lopsided in its execution of policies.
• 3. Affective function: Transmitting emotions and feelings .
Eg: I am thrilled to hear the splendid news.
•4. Ideational function : The expression of experience.
Eg: The breeze sent chills down our spine.

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• 5. Interpersonal function:The expression of the speaker’s role in the speech situation to establish
and maintain social relations.
Eg: Honourable chief guest, Yours faithfully.
• 6. Textual function: The choice of grammatically and situationally appropriate sentences and the
ordering of content in a cohesive and logical manner.
Eg: She realised that she had forgotten her bag at the clinic
•7. Directive function: Utterances attempt to get someone to do something.
Eg: Clear the table.

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• 8. Referential function: Utterances provide information.
Eg : You have a grammar test today.
• 9. Metalinguistic function: Utterances comment on language itself.
Eg: Xerox is an instance of colloquialism.
• [Link] function: utterances focus on the aesthetic features of language.
Eg: She sells sea shells on the seashore.
• 11. Phatic function: Utterances expressing solidarity and empathy with others
Eg: How do you do?
•

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