CONATIVE function of language: definition and examples

Language has different functions. These serve to establish different nuances that show the intention of the speaker making the message reach the receiver in the appropriate way. Within the functions of language we can find the appellative function of language (or conative). So that you can know it a little better and know how you can use it in this lesson from a TEACHER, we are going to see the conative function of language: definition and examples.

The language has different functions. Specifically we can find six. These were defined by the linguist Roman Jackobson who established this new paradigm in the study of Linguistics. So when we talk about Language functionswe refer to the following:

• Expressive or emotional function
• Appellate or conative function
• Poetic function
• Phatic or contact function
• Function metalinguistics
• Representative or referential function

We see that the conative function is within the language functions described by the author. Therefore, how can we define the conative or appellative function of language?

First of all we must point out that this function focuses on the recipient of the message. That is, the protagonist of this function will be the person who is going to receive a message from a sender. This is used when you want to establish the purpose of provoke a reaction by the recipient, get their attention or get a response from them.

In addition to conative, this function can be identified as appellative, since its function is to appeal to the interlocutor. The issuer will ask a question to the issuer with the aim that this provides an answer to a situation or question or that it provokes a reaction.

On the other hand, this function, attempts to influence the recipient's behavior, that is, look for a reaction in him. It focuses on the receiver. It is the function of office and ask. The sender tries to influence the behavior of the receiver. Something is expected from you. Thus, there will be a necessary interaction between the two communicative elements.

Therefore, we could say that the appellate or conative function of language is the one that serves to appeal to the interlocutor or call his attention so that he performs a certain action be it fulfilling an order, answering a question, accepting a request, an invitation… etc.

Linguistic resources of the conative function of language

To establish this conative function of language, we can use different linguistic resources that will help us to achieve the purpose of appealing to the issuer and achieving a reaction in him.

• Use of vocatives.
• The second person predominates.
• Verbs are used in the infinitive and imperative mode.
• Use of interrogative sentences
• Use of exhortative sentences

Now you know what the definition of the concept of conative function of language is and you know what resources it uses for it. But in order for you to understand it better, it will be necessary to apply a series of conative function examples that will help you establish your knowledge and clarify any doubts you may have in this regard.

Here are some sentences that show this conative or appellative function of the language so that you can recognize them quickly and easily when you have to analyze any text:

• Ana, pick up everything you have thrown in your room right now!
• Do you have the book that Pedro left you?
• Could you close the door to the terrace? Here it starts to get cold.
• Isabel, she goes to the concierge and asks Miguel for some chalk.
• Please behave yourself correctly!
• Would you like to come with me to Sofia's birthday party?
• Do it now!
• Can you answer the phone?
• In order to access the grant, please send this correctly completed file via certified mail.
• Bring us two plates of pasta Bolognese and a bottle of wine, please.
• Laura, could you help me with these boxes?
• Think things over before you act!
• Please read all exam questions carefully before answering.
• When you come home from work go to the supermarket and bring milk, we have run out.
• High!
• Stop immediately!
• Have you thought about studying a career related to education?
• Forget that man for once!
• Did you bring the ingredients your father asked you to make dinner?
• Wait to be served.
• In an emergency press the alarm button.
• Please turn off your cell phones, the show will start.
• Close the closet door!
• Please could you speak lower? We are reunited.
• Let me know if you arrive soon.

If you want to know other interesting lessons such as the conative function of language, its definition and examples, we encourage you to discover the rest of the language functions in our section from Linguistics and Grammar. In it you will find relevant information on topics that interest you about this subject and that will help you solve all your doubts.

Jakobson, R. (1963). Essais de linguistique genérale. Paris: Minuit, 1963.

Saussure, F. (1986) General linguistics course. Buenos Aires, Losada.