Speech act
By group 3
What is Speech act ?
A speech act is an action we perform
through language when we say
something. The idea comes from
philosophy of language, especially J. L.
Austin and John Searle.
What is Speech act ?
Instead of seeing language only as a way
to state facts, they showed that speaking
is also a way of doing things.
Here are the 3 Speech acts:
1. Locutionary act
2. Illocutionary act
3. Perlocutionary act
1. Locutionary act
You may ask, what is a locutionary act?
1. Locutionary act
• A locutionary act is simply the act of saying
the exact words being spoken. It deals with
the literal meaning of the sentences, including
pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.
1. Locutionary act
• In other words, it is what is explicitly said,
without looking at hidden intentions or
effects.
1. Locutionary act
Example:
If the speaker says: “The door is closed,” the
locutionary act is just that the literal statement
that the door is not open. Nothing more,
nothing less.
2. Illocutionary act
Now, what is an illocutionary act?
2. Illocutionary act
• An Illocutionary act is what the
intention of the speaker in saying
something.. It is the function behind
the words, whether they are asking,
ordering, promising, or questioning.
2. Illocutionary act
Here’s an examples:
• Making a request
Saying: “Can you pass the ketchup?”
Illocutionary act: Requesting the ketchup.
2. Illocutionary act
Here’s an examples:
• Giving an order
Saying: “Close the window.”
Illocutionary act: Commanding someone to
close the window.
2. Illocutionary act
Here’s an examples:
• Making a promise
Saying: “I promise I’ll come tomorrow.”
Illocutionary act: Committing to being present.
2. Illocutionary act
Here’s an examples:
• Asking a question
Saying: “Do you know what day it is?”
Illocutionary act: Seeking information.
2. Illocutionary act
Now
2. Illocutionary act
Can you please give me more
examples.
3. Perlocutionary Act
Finally, what is a
perlocutionary act?
3. Perlocutionary Act
• The perlocutionary act focuses on the effect the words have on
the listener. It shows how language can influence actions,
emotions, or thoughts.
3. Perlocutionary Act
Examples:
Saying: “This project will fail unless we act now.”
Perlocutionary effect: The team feels motivated and speeds up their work, or
alternatively, they will feel panicked.
3. Perlocutionary Act
Examples:
Saying: “Can you pass the ketchup?”
Perlocutionary effect: The listener hands over the ketchup (desired effect).
3. Perlocutionary Act
Examples:
Saying: “There’s a dog outside.”
Perlocutionary effect: The listener may feels afraid, curious, or may simply
goes to check.
Now
Why are Speech Acts Important?
Why are Speech Acts Important?
• The importance of speech acts lies in the fact that they show how
communication is not just about words, but about action and
impact.
Here’s why they matter:
Measure the Real Impact of Communication
• They reveal whether your words achieved the intended effect or
caused an unexpected reaction.
Guide Effective Speaking
• By anticipating listener responses, you can choose words that
are more persuasive, encouraging, or careful.
Here’s why they matter:
Bridge Intention and Outcome
• They help us see whether our intentions (illocutionary acts)
successfully turn into real results (perlocutionary acts).
Crucial for Persuasion and Influence
• Public speaking, teaching, advertising, and leadership all
depend on creating specific perlocutionary effects such as
motivation, agreement, or excitement.
Here’s why they matter:
Prevent Miscommunication
• Understanding speech acts helps us avoid misunderstandings,
confusion, or even offense.
That’s All.
Thank You for Listening!
