Indirect speech acts rely on implied meanings from "summary" of How to Do Things with Words by John Langshaw Austin,J. L. Austin
In considering speech acts, it is essential to recognize the distinction between what is said and what is meant. While the literal meaning of an utterance may be clear, the intention behind it can often be more subtle and implied. This is particularly evident in the case of indirect speech acts, where the speaker conveys their meaning indirectly rather than explicitly. In such instances, the speaker relies on implied meanings to communicate their intention. This can involve various linguistic devices, such as tone, context, and cultural norms, to convey the underlying message. By using indirect speech acts, the speaker can achieve a certain effect or influence the listener's behavior without stating their intention explicitly. One example of an indirect speech act is the use of politeness strategies. Instead of directly asking someone to do something, a speaker may use polite language or softening expressions to imply their request. In this way, the speaker relies on the listener to infer the intended meaning from the context and the manner in which the request is made. Another example of indirect speech acts is the use of sarcasm or irony. By saying one thing but meaning another, the speaker can convey a message that is contrary to the literal meaning of their words. In such cases, the listener must interpret the speaker's intended meaning based on cues such as tone, facial expressions, and context.- Indirect speech acts rely on implied meanings to convey the speaker's intentions. By using linguistic cues and contextual information, the speaker can communicate subtly and effectively, influencing the listener's understanding and response. This highlights the complexity and nuance of language use, where what is said is not always what is meant.
