Performative: meaning, definitions and examples
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performative
[ pərˈfɔr.mə.tɪv ]
linguistics context
Performative refers to a type of utterance that performs an action by the very act of being spoken. In linguistics, a performative statement is one that does not merely convey information but enacts something in the world upon being articulated. For instance, saying 'I apologize' is not just communicating an apology but is actually performing the action of apologizing. This term is crucial in the study of speech acts, where the capability of language to accomplish actions is explored.
Synonyms
action-oriented, functioning, performing
Examples of usage
- The teacher's 'I hereby declare this class over' is a performative utterance.
- In theater, a performative moment can change the audience's perception.
- The performative nature of vows makes weddings significant.
- Saying 'I bet you' functions as a performative in gambling.
- In court, a judge's ruling is a performative act.
Translations
Translations of the word "performative" in other languages:
🇵🇹 performativo
🇮🇳 प्रदर्शनकारी
🇩🇪 performativ
🇮🇩 performatif
🇺🇦 перформативний
🇵🇱 performatywny
🇯🇵 パフォーマティブ
🇫🇷 performative
🇪🇸 performativo
🇹🇷 performatif
🇰🇷 행위적
🇸🇦 أدائي
🇨🇿 performativní
🇸🇰 performativný
🇨🇳 表演性
🇸🇮 performativni
🇮🇸 frammistöðuháttur
🇰🇿 орындаушы
🇬🇪 პერფორმატიული
🇦🇿 performativ
🇲🇽 performativo
Word origin
The term 'performative' originated in the early 20th century, primarily from the field of linguistics and philosophy. It was first notably discussed by the philosopher J.L. Austin in his work 'How to Do Things with Words,' published in 1962. Austin introduced the distinction between constative utterances, which describe situations, and performative utterances, which perform an action. The concept has since evolved, gaining traction in various fields, including literary theory and performance studies. It reflects a growing interest in the relationship between language, action, and social practice. Over time, the term has expanded beyond its original linguistic context to describe performances in arts and social interactions, highlighting the dynamics of meaning and intention in communication.