ASSIGNMENT

DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

TOPIC: LANGUAGE IN AND OUT OF

CONTEXT

SEMESTER: 06
SECTION: B
SUBMITTED TO: MA’AM NOREEN
SUBMITTED BY: RIGZA AHMAD
IFRAH SHAH
WARDA KHALID
What is language in a context?

Introducti on:

Language in a context refers to the understanding that language is not used in isolation but rather
within specific settings, situations, and social frameworks that shape its meaning and usage. Language
cannot be separated from the context in which it is employed, as context provides the necessary
background information and influences the interpretation and significance of linguistic expressions.

Context can encompass various factors, including the physical environment, social and cultural norms,
the relationship between speakers, and the immediate situation in which communication takes place.
These contextual elements contribute to the interpretation of language, the choice of words, the use of
nonverbal cues, and the overall effectiveness of communication.

For example:

consider the phrase "I'm fine." In different contexts, the meaning and implications of this
statement can vary. In a casual conversation between friends, it might simply indicate that everything is
okay. However, if spoken with a subdued tone and in a hospital waiting room, it could imply a deeper
concern about one's health. The context, including the social setting and the speaker's demeanor,
significantly influences the interpretation and understanding of the message.

What is context?

CONTEXT:

Context refers to the surrounding circumstances, conditions, or factors that shape the
meaning, interpretation, and understanding of something. It provides the necessary background
information and influences the way in which something is perceived, experienced, or communicated. In
the context of language, the term "context" refers to the specific settings, situations, and social
frameworks in which language is used.

FACTORS IN WHICH DISCOURSE OCCURS:

1. Linguistic Context:
Linguistic context refers to the immediate linguistic elements that surround a specific
word, phrase, or utterance and contribute to its meaning and interpretation. It includes the
words, sentences, and discourse preceding and following the target expression. Linguistic
 context provides important cues for understanding the intended meaning, disambiguating
ambiguous words or phrases, and inferring implied information.

For example, consider the word "bank." Without any linguistic context, it can refer to a financial
institution or the edge of a river. However, if the word is used in a sentence like "I need to deposit money
in the bank," the linguistic context clarifies that the word refers to a financial institution.

2. Situational Context:
Situational context refers to the specific circumstances or setting in which communication
takes place. It includes factors such as the physical environment, time, location, participants
involved, and the purpose or topic of communication. Situational context provides additional
information beyond the linguistic content and influences how language is used and interpreted.

For instance, consider the sentence "Could you please turn up the volume?" In a home setting, this
request may refer to adjusting the volume on a television or stereo. However, in a lecture hall, it could
imply adjusting the volume on a microphone or audio system. The situational context helps determine
the intended meaning and guides appropriate action.

3. Cultural Context:
Cultural context refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, and social norms of a
particular group or society. It shapes the way language is used, interpreted, and understood
within a cultural community. Cultural context influences language choices, politeness
conventions, communication styles, and the meanings attributed to certain words or
expressions.

For example, the phrase "How are you?" may have different cultural expectations and responses. In
some cultures, it is a general greeting and a polite question, while in others, it may require a detailed
response about well-being. Cultural context determines the appropriate response and the level of
personal information shared in the exchange.

Understanding linguistic context, situational context, and cultural context is essential for accurate
interpretation and effective communication. These contextual factors provide crucial cues for
comprehending meaning, resolving ambiguities, and adapting language use appropriately within
different settings and cultural communities.