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Philosophy and Logic: SUMMARY - Language and Its Functions (Module 3 Unit 5)
Directive Function.
This function of language is also known as evocative function. It is to cause (or prevent) an overt action. The utterance in a directive function of language operate as to evoke action from the hearer. The sense in which the word evoke is been used here is broader than in the expressive function of language. Here, the word evoke means to provoke or cause an overt action,
to produce an action. This use is not the same as we have in the expressive function where the word evoke means to excite emotions or feelings, that is to cause, to express a feeling, an emotion or an attitude.
The sole purpose of language under directive function is to produce action. Thus, when a father tells his child “go and clean the floor” the intention is not to communicate any information nor is it to express or evoke any emotion or feeling; it is intended to produce action, and that is for the child to clean the floor. Another example is when a policeman orders a person “go and park there”.
We need to note here that directive function of language can be understood from three angles of a command, request and interrogation. The first two examples can be treated as commands, however it can be change to a request when a subtle means is introduced. For instance, when the word please is added, it becomes a request, e.g. “please go and park there” direct.
The third sense which interrogative is usually inform of questions. For example, “where were you?” this is a directive requesting an answer. You need to know that directive function of language does not any form of investigation on its truth value. This is because a command like “Get out!” can neither be true nor false. But then, a directive function of language may be definite, confused, either obeyed or disobeyed or disregarded in its command sense; it may be untimely, unauthorized, obliged or unexpected. Furthermore, in both the request and command sense it may be specific, reasonable, genuine, improper and sham, unspecific and proper.