.png){kind=icon}
The Social Side of Language
Consider the examples below in which the sentences marked in bold occur in a particular context. For each of the sentences, note some aspect of the sentence’s meaning that can be attributed directly to the “hard” linguistic component—that is, understood as part of the conventionally-accepted meaning of the language that was used. Then note some aspect that can be attributed to the “soft” meaning—that is, inferred to be part of the speaker’s intended message rather than part of the conventional meaning of the language. Two samples have been provided to illustrate.
If in doubt, play around with the context; if the meaning can be shifted due to the context, it is part of the “soft” meaning of the sentence.
Samples
A: I’m tired of being with women who have commitment issues. I want a solid, steadfast woman.
B: I’d stay away from Liz if I were you. Liz has already been married three times.
“Hard” meaning: Liz has been married more than twice.
“Soft” meaning: Liz has trouble being committed to one man.
A: I’m tired of naïve, idealistic women. I’d rather be with a woman who has some life experiences and is a little wiser.
B: I’ll introduce you to Liz. Liz has already been married three times.
“Hard” meaning: Liz has been married more than twice.
“Soft” meaning: Liz has learned from her life experiences.
Example 1
A: You should take a course with Dr. Spulick. You’ll love him.
B: Is he a good teacher?
A: He’s the kindest person I’ve ever met.
Example 2
A: I heard Max Simmons give a talk the other night.
B: I heard that he’s utterly brilliant. Some people call him a genius.
A: Simmons is clever.
Example 3
A: How did the dinner party go last night? Did your new tuna recipe turn out all right?
B: Even Sandro had second helpings.
Example 4
In a letter of recommendation for a faculty position:
Dr. Snelgrove managed to complete his dissertation under the diligent guidance of his supervisor.
Example 5
A: Is there a plot afoot to usurp the president?
B: The president thinks his vice president is plotting against him.
Example 6
A: How likely is it that the Yankees will win the World Series?
B: It’s possible that the Yankees will win.
Example 7
Jordan put her hand on my arm.
“Won’t you come in, Nick?”
“No, thanks.”
I was feeling a little sick and I wanted to be alone. But Jordan lingered for a moment more.
“It’s only half past nine,” she said.
—F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
Example 8
A spasm of pain drove the smile from Mr. Prewitt’s face. “You ought to eat more careful,” the Boy said.
“Nothing does it any good,” Mr. Prewitt said.
“You drink too much.”
“Eat, drink, for tomorrow…” Mr. Prewitt writhed his hand on his stomach.
“You got an ulcer?” the Boy said.
“No, nothing like that.”
“You ought to have your inside photographed.”
“I don’t believe in the knife,” Mr. Prewitt said quickly and nervously.
—Graham Greene, Brighton Rock