Understanding Reference and Context in Language

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What is the significance of knowing that a hospital is the context for a heart-attack in the provided text?

It highlights the importance of understanding local context in reference analysis. (correct)

It indicates that heart-attacks should be immediately moved.

It suggests that hospitals are noisy places.

It implies that heart-attacks are common in hospitals.

How does the text suggest that references may differ across social groups?

By stating that conventions are always marked similarly in different languages.

By mentioning that social conventions vary and may be distinct in different languages. (correct)

By indicating that all social groups use the same conventions for reference.

By highlighting that social groups adopt the same socio-cultural conventions.

What does the text imply about anaphoric reference?

It is only applicable in limited contexts.

It is a mechanical act devoid of social implications.

It is never influenced by local socio-cultural conventions.

It is a complex social act influenced by speaker's intentions. (correct)

Why do speakers use various expressions to maintain reference in multi-sentence discourse?

To ensure clarity and coherence in communication. Signup and view all the answers

In the provided text, what role does local knowledge play in reference analysis?

Local knowledge influences how references are interpreted based on socio-cultural conventions. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for speakers to assume that their chosen words for reference will be interpreted as intended?

To ensure effective communication and shared understanding. Signup and view all the answers

What is referred to as referring expressions in the context?

Expressions used by speakers to enable identification Signup and view all the answers

In shared visual contexts, what type of expressions are mentioned to be sufficient for successful reference?

Deictic pronouns Signup and view all the answers

What influences the choice between different types of referring expressions according to the text?

The context and the listener's assumed knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Which factor plays a role in maintaining reference in multi-sentence discourse?

Speaker's goals and beliefs Signup and view all the answers

What can be used when identification of something seems more difficult, based on the text?

Elaborate noun phrases Signup and view all the answers

What is stated as crucial for successful reference to occur according to the text?

Role of inference Signup and view all the answers

In the context of reference analysis, what does it mean for an expression to be 'invested' with referential function?

The speaker or writer assigns referential function to the expression in a particular context Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'intention-to-identify' in the context of reference?

It involves collaboration between the speaker and listener Signup and view all the answers

What role does local knowledge play in maintaining reference in multi-sentence discourse?

It assists in recognizing intended references across sentences Signup and view all the answers

How does the socio-cultural convention impact reference in communication?

It ensures that certain expressions consistently identify specific entities Signup and view all the answers

How does anaphoric reference contribute to effective communication?

By avoiding repetition and enhancing coherence Signup and view all the answers

Why does the text emphasize that referring expressions cannot inherently have reference?

To emphasize the role of listeners in assigning referential function Signup and view all the answers

Understanding Reference and Context in Language

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