Token-Reflexive Deixis

Overview

Token-reflexive deixis is a fascinating linguistic phenomenon where a word or phrase refers back to the utterance itself or the token of that utterance. Unlike standard deixis that points to context (time, place, person), token-reflexive deixis is self-referential.

Key Concepts

The core idea is self-reference within language. Consider phrases that comment on their own existence or properties within the speech act.

Examples of Token-Reflexive Deixis

• Expressions like ‘this sentence’ when used to refer to the sentence it is part of.
• Metalinguistic comments that discuss the utterance itself.

Deep Dive: The Nature of Self-Reference

Token-reflexive deixis highlights the recursive nature of language. It allows language to talk about itself, a concept explored in logic and philosophy. The ‘token’ is crucial – it’s not the abstract word type, but the specific instance of its use.

This is an example of token-reflexive deixis, as it refers to itself.

Applications in Linguistics

Understanding token-reflexive deixis is important for:

• Pragmatics: How speakers use language to refer to their own utterances.
• Semantics: The meaning of self-referential expressions.
• Philosophy of Language: Examining the boundaries of linguistic reference and self-awareness.

Challenges and Misconceptions

A common misconception is confusing token-reflexive deixis with general self-reference or simple repetition. The specificity of referring to the utterance token is key.

FAQs

What is the difference between deixis and token-reflexive deixis?

Standard deixis points to external context (time, place, person). Token-reflexive deixis points to the utterance itself.

Are there many examples?

While not exceedingly common, examples like ‘this statement’ or ‘this utterance’ are clear instances.