California Teacher of English Learners (CTEL) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CTEL Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term 'pragmatics' refers to the meaning behind communication, encompassing how context influences the interpretation of messages. It involves understanding both the explicit meanings of words and the implicit meanings conveyed through tone, gestures, social norms, and the situational context in which communication occurs. Pragmatics addresses how language is used in practical situations, taking into account the relationships between speakers and listeners, the settings in which conversations happen, and the intentions behind utterances. This understanding allows for effective communication beyond mere vocabulary and grammar, emphasizing the importance of context in conveying meaning. This focus on the nuances of meaning in communication distinguishes pragmatics from other aspects of language study, such as syntax, which deals with sentence structure; phonetics, which is the study of sounds; and semantics, which typically encompasses the meanings of individual words and phrases without the broader context.