Pragmatics Quiz (Chapters 1-5)

What is a 'semiotic sign' in linguistics?

• A sign that refers only to written language

• A symbol that contains a phoneme

• The union of a signifier and a signified

• A word that has one fixed meaning

What does 'extensional semantics' focus on?

• The meaning of words in relation to other words

• The referents of words in the real world

• The internal grammar of language

• The intonation patterns in speech

In contrast, 'intensional semantics' refers to:

• Referents in real-life situations

• Logical relationships between speech acts

• The meaning of words based on their relation to others

• Flouting of conversational maxims

Which of the following best defines 'context' in pragmatics?

• Only the grammar of the sentence

• The use of punctuation marks

• The situational, cultural, and linguistic environment of an utterance

• The length of a sentence

What is the meaning of 'utterance'?

• A phrase in a dictionary

• A sentence spoken in context

• A set of phonological rules

• A grammatical unit in syntax

What is the 'semantics/pragmatics boundary'?

• A rule that divides grammar from syntax

• The clear-cut difference between words and sounds

• A debated line separating literal meaning and contextual meaning

• A law in sociolinguistics

In pragmatics, 'modularity' refers to:

• The use of multiple-choice tests

• Dividing grammar into tense and aspect

• Encapsulated mental processes that operate independently

• Teaching multiple registers in TESOL

What does 'truth-functional semantics' focus on?

• Tone and pitch of an utterance

• Truth value of propositions

• Grammatical correctness

• Cultural awareness

What is a 'speech act'?

• An act of speaking multiple languages

• A physical movement accompanying speech

• An utterance that performs an action

• A slang term for idioms

Which of these is an example of an 'indirect speech act'?

• 'Pass the salt.'

• 'Can you pass the salt?'

• 'Give me salt now.'

• 'The salt is here.'