Language Functions

When we talk about Language Functions, we are talking about the reason we use a language.

At its most basic, the function of language is communication; we use language to give and receive messages between ourselves.

We can break this down into Language Functions. When we communicate with language we can:

• compare and contrast
• make a complaint
• express love or anger
• persuade someone
• give advice
• ask for something
• ask for something politely
• hide the truth (lie)
• warn
• give information
• explain a process
• apportion blame
• avoid saying anything

and so on.

Each language function can be associated with certain grammatical forms. For example, when we are being polite we often use modal verbs:

Compare this to when the language function is one of demanding:

Although each language function deals with one main communicative need, it can cover different situations.

For example, "Asking for information & directions" can be used not only in the context of tourists finding their way round town but also with new employees who need to find their bearings in a large firm. The same goes for "Instructing others". Here the relevant language will be about giving orders, making strong suggestions etc. these can be used at work but also outside work at a hotel, when hiring a car, ordering a meal, etc.