Five-year-old Karl chooses more formal words when talking to his teachers, but uses infant-directed speech when speaking to his baby brother, Nelson. This changing of speech to fit the social situation is called
A) grammar.
B) syntax.
C) pragmatics.
D) egocentrism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pragmatics refers to the aspect of language that involves using language appropriately in different social contexts, including adjusting speech to fit the audience or situation. Karl's ability to modify his speech based on whom he is talking to (his teachers vs. his baby brother) demonstrates his understanding of pragmatics.

Five-Year-Old Karl Chooses More Formal Words When Talking to His