Ответы-предположения как особый тип ответов: структурно-семантический и функционально-прагматический аспекты

Abstract

The paper aims to reveal functional specificity of answers-assumptions, to identify the means of expressing their “assumption” semantics. Scientific originality of the study lies in the fact that the author introduces the terms “modus answer”, “answer-assumption” into scientific circulation. The research material includes dialogic unities obtained from educational dialogues and the “Smart Boys and Girls” program. The research findings are as follows: the author describes functional-pragmatic peculiarities of answers-assumptions (special function includes expressing assumption in a situation where the respondent does not know the exact answer but offers a possible answer to the question; the inquirer possesses the required information, his goal is to check the respondent’s knowledge). Semantics of assumption is realized in answers containing the following components: introductory words and word combinations / introductory sentences expressing a low degree of certainty; means of expressing uncertainty (indefinite pronouns, indication of uncertainty in quantity); alternative conjunction or ; echo-questions. Moreover, the author identifies the linguistic means used to express the respondent’s uncertainty: a) means indicating that the respondent has forgotten relevant information; b) means of expressing ignorance.