noun
- the branch of linguistics that studies how context affects the interpretation and use of language in communication
Usage: linguistics
Examples
- The linguistics course covered syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.
- Understanding pragmatics helps explain why the same sentence can mean different things in different situations.
- In pragmatics, researchers study how speakers use implied meaning and context clues.
- The professor explained how pragmatics differs from grammar and vocabulary.
- Pragmatics examines how tone of voice and social context affect communication.
- Students of pragmatics learn about speech acts and conversational implicature.