Functional Communication: Use of Words

Applied Linguistics March 31, 2023

Functional Communication: Use of Words



Words are the fundamental building blocks of communication, and they serve various functions in conveying meaning and information. Here are some of the key functions of the use of words in communication:

  1. To convey meaning: The primary function of words is to convey meaning and ideas from one person to another. Words allow us to express our thoughts, feelings, and experiences and to communicate them to others.

  2. To express emotions: Words are also used to express emotions, such as happiness, anger, sadness, or excitement. Choosing the right words can convey our emotional states and help others understand our feelings.

  3. To establish relationships: Words are important in establishing and maintaining relationships. Using words to communicate with others can build trust, establish rapport, and develop meaningful connections.

  4. To persuade: Words are often used to persuade others to adopt a particular point of view or to take a certain action. By using persuasive language, we can influence the opinions and behaviours of others.

  5. To inform: Words are used to inform others about events, ideas, and other important information. By sharing information with others, we can help them make informed decisions and stay up-to-date on the latest developments.

  6. To entertain: Finally, words are used to entertain others through storytelling, humour, and other forms of creative expression. Using words creatively can engage and captivate our audiences and provide them with enjoyable experiences.


Examples:

  1. To convey meaning: "I'm going to the store to buy groceries." In this sentence, the words convey the meaning that the speaker is leaving to purchase food items.

  2. To express emotions: "I'm so excited to see you!" In this sentence, the word "excited" expresses the speaker's emotions of anticipation and joy.

  3. To establish relationships: "Hi, my name is John. It's nice to meet you." In this sentence, the words are used to introduce oneself and establish a connection with another person.

  4. To persuade: "I think we should go to the beach instead of the park because the weather is perfect for swimming." In this sentence, the speaker uses persuasive language to convince others to choose a certain location for their outing.

  5. To inform: "The meeting has been rescheduled for next week." In this sentence, the words are used to inform others about a change in the schedule.

  6. To entertain: "Once upon a time, there was a princess who lived in a castle..." In this sentence, the words are used to tell a story and entertain the audience.


Worksheet

Fill in the Blank Worksheet:

Instructions: Fill in the blank with an appropriate word for the intended function.

  1. I think we should go to the _________ instead of the mall because it's a beautiful day outside. (Persuading)

  2. My favorite book is Harry Potter and the _________. (Entertaining)

  3. Hi, my name is Tom. ___________ to meet you. (Establishing relationships)

  4. The meeting has been ___________ for next Monday. (Informing)

  5. I feel so ___________ after winning the game! (Conveying emotions)

  6. She asked me to ___________ the cake recipe with her. (Conveying meaning)

Answers:

  1. Park
  2. Sorcerer's Stone
  3. It's nice
  4. Rescheduled
  5. Happy
  6. Share


Worksheet

Vocabulary Builder Worksheet:

Instructions: Define each word and use it in a sentence that demonstrates its function.

  1. Persuasive: (adjective) having the ability to convince or influence others to believe or do something.

Example sentence: The politician's speech was so persuasive that it convinced many people to change their minds about the issue.

  1. Eloquence: (noun) the ability to speak or write in a way that is fluent, graceful, and persuasive.

Example sentence: The poet's eloquence was so powerful that it left the audience in tears.

  1. Articulate: (verb) to express thoughts or ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing.

Example sentence: The teacher could articulate the complex topic in a way that made it easy for the students to understand.

  1. Empathy: (noun) the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

Example sentence: The therapist showed empathy towards her client, which helped to build trust and a deeper connection.

  1. Clarity: (noun) the quality of being clear, easy to understand, or see.

Example sentence: The instructions were clearly written, so even a beginner could follow them.

  1. Humor: (noun) the quality of being amusing, comical, or entertaining.

Example sentence: The comedian's humor had the audience laughing so hard they could barely breathe.

  1. Succinct: (adjective) expressed briefly and clearly.

Example sentence: The report was succinct, containing only the necessary information without any unnecessary details.

  1. Jargon: (noun) specialized technical terminology or language used in a particular field or profession.

Example sentence: The doctor used medical jargon, which was difficult for the patient to understand.

  1. Narrative: (noun) a story or an account of events.

Example sentence: The author's narrative was so compelling that it kept the readers on the edge of their seats.

  1. Syntax: (noun) the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language.

Example sentence: The writer's use of syntax was so skillful that it created a rhythm and flow to the sentences.

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