Modality of Volition in the Context of Communicative-Pragmatic Strategies and Tactics of Implementing of Speaker’s Intentions

Abstract

The article explores the multifaceted role of the modality of volition within communicative-pragmatic strategies and tactics, elucidating its significance in implementing the speaker’s intentions. Based on linguistic, pragmatic, and communication studies, the research examines how the speaker uses different communication-pragmatic strategies to effectively communicate their intentions. The concept of illocutionary force is the key concept in this study. Depending on the communicative situation, the speaker’s intention is communicated through utterances, conveying either obvious or hidden intentions. The study analyses examples showcasing the nuanced gradations of illocutionary force, emphasizing the speaker’s intention to prompt action through utterances imbued with the modality of volition. Moreover, it outlines the pragmatic implications of employing different communicative-pragmatic strategies and tactics, illustrating how coercion, persuasion, and justification are used taking into account the speaker’s intentions. Coercion, which is considered to be the most violent strategy, involves attempts to influence the addressee through pressure or force, disregarding their autonomy and, thus, resulting in negative consequences. In contrast, persuasion is aimed at changing attitudes or behaviours through reasoning and appeals, fostering collaboration and mutual benefit. Justification, meanwhile, is aimed at supporting the speaker’s opinions through rational discourse and transparent communication, thus, enhancing understanding and consensus-building. Through a comprehensive analysis of communicative-pragmatic strategies and tactics, this study offers insights into the complex nature of the modality of volition, dynamics of the communicative-pragmatic intentions and strategic communication in interpersonal interactions.