Communicative Functions of Deliberate Misinterpretation from the Pragmatic Perspective

Abstract

Based on the data collected from the conversations in three American TV plays, this paper analyzes the linguistic phenomenon of deliberate misinterpretation in English daily conversations in terms of its communicative functions. Deliberate misinterpretation is a pragmatic strategy chosen by Speaker Two (S2) impelled by certain communicative needs and the strategy will perform certain communicative functions. This study discusses the specific communicative functions DMI performs in interaction. Three categories of communicative functions are analyzed: improving interpersonal relationship, manipulating information, and creating special communicative effects. This is the first study carried out specifically on the linguistic phenomenon of DMI in English daily conversations in terms of its communicative functions. Light may be shed on English teaching and learning, TV talk shows, courtroom languages and debates.