Context Of An Expression

Definition note

The context of an expression or a text is the social situation in which something is said. It includes any information relevant to understanding the appropriate use of an expression or the interpretation of a text.

Discussion

The context of an expression answers the following questions:

  • Who said it? Who was addressed?
  • What were the circumstances? What was the occasion?
  • When was this word or expression used? When was the text given?
  • Where was it spoken?
  • Why was it spoken?
  • How was it spoken? How was it received?
Bibliographic note
Page/s: 274–275
Source: Anderson, S. and Keenan 1985

Anderson, Stephen R., and Edward L. Keenan. 1985. "Deixis." In Shopen 1985d