THE MASTERY CLUB · LEXICAL PRAGMATICS · ENCODED WORD → CONTEXT → NARROWING → BROADENING → AD HOC MEANING → INTENDED INTERPRETATION
Lexical pragmatics studies how the meaning communicated by a word in a particular utterance can differ from, refine or extend the meaning conventionally encoded by that word. A speaker who says The bottle is empty may mean empty enough for the current purpose, even if a few drops remain. The city is asleep does not normally claim that every inhabitant is literally sleeping. It’s boiling in here can communicate extreme heat without asserting that the room has reached the boiling point of water. Vocabulary therefore depends not only on dictionary meanings but also on contextual narrowing, broadening, approximation, hyperbole, metaphor, loose use, ad hoc concepts, relevance, speaker intention and pragmatic inference.
For readers searching for lexical pragmatics, word meaning in context, pragmatic meaning, lexical narrowing, lexical broadening, ad hoc concepts, literal vs intended meaning, loose use, approximation or how context changes what a word communicates, the key idea is adjustment. The dictionary supplies encoded lexical information; the utterance, situation and communicative purpose help the listener infer the interpretation relevant here. This is why skilled vocabulary use is not mechanical substitution from a thesaurus. The same word can make a more specific, looser, metaphorical or contextually calibrated contribution in different situations.
This article is the canonical Lexical Pragmatics owner inside The Mastery Club Vocabulary apex. It is additive and leaves existing eduKateSG pages unchanged. For multiple conventional senses, use Vocabulary | Polysemy and Multiple Meanings. For broader context clues, use What Is Context in Vocabulary?. For metaphor and metonymy, use Vocabulary | Metaphor and Metonymy. This page owns the online adjustment problem: how a known word is interpreted more narrowly, broadly or loosely in one communicative situation.
The 60-Second Answer
Lexical pragmatics explains why utterance meaning is often more specific or more flexible than dictionary meaning. Relevance-theoretic work uses terms such as lexical narrowing and broadening for context-driven adjustments to encoded concepts. A general word can be narrowed to a contextually relevant subtype; a literal concept can be broadened to include approximate, hyperbolic or metaphorical cases. Some accounts describe the resulting context-specific interpretation as an ad hoc concept.
The practical lesson is not that words can mean anything. Contextual adjustment remains constrained by conventional meaning, sentence grammar, world knowledge, speaker intention and the requirement that the interpretation make the utterance coherent and relevant. Good readers and writers ask what the word contributes here, how strongly the speaker commits to it, and which features of the dictionary meaning are being retained, narrowed or loosened.
1. Encoded Meaning and Communicated Meaning
The conventional lexical meaning of a word provides input to interpretation, but the communicated concept can be contextually adjusted. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
2. Contextual Narrowing
A broad lexical concept can be restricted to a more specific contextually relevant subset. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
3. Contextual Broadening
A lexical concept can be loosened or extended beyond its strict encoded boundaries. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
4. Ad Hoc Concepts
Some pragmatic theories describe context-specific interpretations as concepts constructed for the occasion. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
5. Literal Use
Literal interpretation uses a word close to its conventional encoded concept without major contextual loosening. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
6. Approximation
A word can be used approximately when a precise boundary is not important to the communicative purpose. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
7. Loose Use
Speakers routinely use words less strictly than their literal definitions would require. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
8. Hyperbole
Exaggeration broadens a lexical concept to communicate intensity or evaluation rather than literal numerical truth. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
9. Metaphorical Broadening
Words can extend into another conceptual domain while preserving selected relational structure. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
10. Metonymic Extension
A related entity can stand for another through association, institution, part–whole or producer–product relations. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
11. Category Narrowing
A general category word can be narrowed to the subtype relevant in the situation. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
12. Property Narrowing
An adjective can be interpreted against a context-specific comparison class. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
13. Scalar Adjustment
Words such as tall, expensive or late are interpreted relative to contextually relevant scales. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
14. Threshold Adjustment
Category boundaries such as empty, full, clean or finished can be pragmatically calibrated to the task. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
15. Comparison Class
An adjective’s interpretation often depends on which set of things provides the relevant comparison. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
16. Task Relevance
The communicative goal determines which semantic features matter in the current use. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
17. Speaker Intention
Listeners infer what the speaker intends to communicate, not merely the widest dictionary definition. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
18. Mutual Knowledge
Shared knowledge helps interlocutors recover intended lexical adjustments. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
19. Common Ground
Common ground narrows the set of plausible interpretations of vague or underspecified words. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
20. Relevance
Interpretation balances contextual effects against processing effort under relevance-theoretic accounts. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
21. Underspecification
A word can encode less detail than a particular utterance ultimately communicates. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
22. Enrichment
Pragmatic inference can add contextually necessary specificity not explicitly encoded in one word. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
23. Saturation
Some expressions require contextual values such as time, place or reference before a proposition is complete. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
24. Pragmatic Intrusion
Contextual information can contribute to what is explicitly communicated rather than only to later implication. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
25. Explicature
In relevance theory, explicature is an explicitly communicated proposition developed from linguistic form plus pragmatic inference. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
26. Implicature
An implicature is indirectly communicated meaning inferred beyond the explicature. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
27. Lexical Meaning vs Implicature
Not every inferred attitude or consequence should be written into the lexical meaning itself. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
28. Polysemy vs Pragmatic Adjustment
A conventional stored sense differs conceptually from a one-off or flexible context-specific adjustment. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
29. Sense Selection
When a word has conventional senses, context first selects among them before further pragmatic adjustment. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
30. Ambiguity vs Underspecification
Ambiguity offers discrete alternatives; underspecification may leave one broad concept requiring contextual refinement. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
31. Vagueness
Vague words have flexible boundaries whose exact threshold can depend on context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
32. Gradable Adjectives
Tall, expensive, difficult and old require contextual standards rather than fixed universal thresholds. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
33. Absolute Adjectives
Words such as empty or full can still receive pragmatic tolerance in ordinary use. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
34. Approximate Number Expressions
Round numbers can communicate approximate quantities depending on conversational purpose. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
35. Round Numbers
Ten, a hundred and a thousand may be interpreted exactly or approximately according to context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
36. Loose Geographical Language
The station is near the museum relies on a context-specific standard of distance. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
37. Temporal Approximation
I’ll be there at six can tolerate small deviation in casual contexts while formal schedules may demand greater precision. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
38. Spatial Approximation
The bag is on the table can remain usable when exact contact relations vary. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
39. Artifact Categories
Words such as chair, cup or bottle can be pragmatically extended to non-prototypical objects serving the same function. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
40. Functional Narrowing
Tool, container or vehicle can be narrowed to the subset relevant to a task. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
41. Institutional Narrowing
School, court or bank can be interpreted as building, institution, staff or activity according to context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
42. Event Narrowing
Meeting, class or game can refer to a particular scheduled event rather than the general activity type. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
43. Role Narrowing
Teacher, doctor or manager can mean the person currently acting in that institutional role. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
44. Relational Meaning
Words such as friend, neighbour or colleague require contextual relations among people. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
45. Evaluative Adjectives
Good, bad, appropriate and successful depend strongly on the goal or criterion under discussion. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
46. Success Terms
Finished, solved, fixed and successful often presuppose a relevant task criterion. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
47. Approximate Completion
A task can be described as finished when remaining details are irrelevant to the current purpose. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
48. Approximate Cleanliness
Clean can mean clean enough for eating, laboratory work, display or ordinary use depending on context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
49. Approximate Emptiness
Empty can tolerate negligible residue in casual contexts but not necessarily in technical measurement. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
50. Approximate Fullness
Full can mean functionally full before literal physical capacity is reached. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
51. Hyperbole in Quantity
I’ve told you a million times communicates repeated frequency, not a literal count. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
52. Hyperbole in Duration
I’ve been waiting forever communicates excessive-seeming duration rather than infinity. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
53. Hyperbole in Temperature
It’s boiling/freezing can communicate extreme perceived heat or cold. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
54. Hyperbole in Evaluation
That weighs a ton can express heaviness without a literal mass claim. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
55. Metaphorical Temperature
Warm welcome and cold response extend temperature vocabulary into social evaluation. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
56. Metaphorical Motion
The discussion moved forward extends motion into progress through discourse. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
57. Metaphorical Weight
Heavy responsibility or light workload extends physical dimensions into abstract burden. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
58. Metaphorical Space
Close relationship and distant attitude use spatial language for social or conceptual relations. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
59. Metaphorical Vision
Clear explanation and obscure idea extend visual clarity into understanding. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
60. Conventionalised Broadening
Frequent pragmatic extensions can become established conventional senses over time. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
61. Pragmatic Adjustment and Semantic Change
Repeated contextual uses can contribute historically to lexicalisation or semantic change. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
62. Register
Formal and informal settings tolerate different degrees of looseness, approximation and hyperbole. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
63. Genre
Technical, legal and scientific genres often require narrower interpretation than casual conversation. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
64. Legal Language
Words with everyday flexibility may receive explicitly defined meanings inside statutes or contracts. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
65. Scientific Language
Technical contexts may fix thresholds or operational definitions that override ordinary loose use. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
66. Mathematics
Mathematical terminology usually demands sharp definitions where ordinary language may tolerate approximation. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
67. News and Public Communication
Writers should distinguish rhetorical looseness from claims that readers may interpret literally. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
68. Advertising
Promotional language often relies on broad evaluative adjectives and implied comparison classes. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
69. Conversation
Everyday speech makes extensive use of approximation, hyperbole and shared-context narrowing. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
70. Fiction
Narrative voice and character perspective can license contextually rich lexical adjustments. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
71. Humour
Humour often exploits a clash between literal lexical meaning and pragmatically intended interpretation. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
72. Irony
Irony can communicate an attitude opposite or distant from the literal evaluative wording. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
73. Sarcasm
Sarcastic interpretation relies heavily on speaker stance and contextual mismatch. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
74. Euphemism
Euphemistic vocabulary can narrow or reframe attention to socially preferred aspects of a concept. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
75. Dysphemism
Harsh lexical choices can foreground negative dimensions of the same referent. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
76. Translation
Translators must recover the context-adjusted concept rather than map only the dictionary headword. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
77. Second-Language Learning
Learners often over-literalise familiar words because pragmatic flexibility differs across languages and contexts. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
78. Reading Comprehension
Readers must distinguish dictionary meaning, context-specific sense and implied attitude. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
79. Listening
Fast spoken interpretation relies on immediate pragmatic adjustment from shared context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
80. Speaking
Fluent speakers calibrate precision, approximation and metaphor to audience and purpose. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
81. Writing
Writers should know when loose use is natural and when exact wording is required. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
82. Word Choice
A near-synonym can change not only denotation but how much contextual adjustment the reader must perform. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
83. Dictionary Use
Dictionaries document conventional senses; they cannot list every ad hoc interpretation created in context. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
84. Corpus Use
Corpora reveal recurring pragmatic patterns and help distinguish conventionalised senses from rare one-off uses. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
85. Assessment
Vocabulary assessment should specify the intended sense and avoid marking legitimate context-sensitive interpretations as errors. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
86. Teaching
Good teaching uses contrastive contexts to show which semantic features remain stable and which are pragmatically adjusted. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
87. Over-Literal Reading
Treating every word at maximum dictionary strictness can create absurd interpretations of ordinary speech. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
88. Over-Pragmatic Reading
Allowing context to justify any interpretation destroys lexical constraints and encourages unsupported inference. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
89. Calibrated Interpretation
Strong readers balance lexical meaning with context while preserving evidence for the adjustment. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
90. The Mastery Club Rule for Lexical Pragmatics
Start from encoded meaning, identify the contextual pressure, state the adjustment and preserve the limits of what the utterance actually supports. The vocabulary task is to identify which semantic features are stable and which are being adjusted for the present communicative purpose.
A practical analysis starts with a dictionary-like paraphrase, then compares it with the actual utterance. Ask what would be absurd or unnecessarily strict under a purely literal reading, and what contextual assumption makes the intended interpretation coherent. The learner should be able to name the adjustment rather than simply say “context changes it.”
Next test the boundary. Construct a context in which the broader or narrower interpretation would no longer be appropriate. This prevents pragmatic flexibility from turning into semantic free-for-all. The conventional lexical core still constrains which interpretations are plausible.
For production, ask the learner to choose between exact wording, loose wording and figurative wording for a specified audience and task. Pragmatic vocabulary mastery means controlling how much adjustment the reader or listener must perform.
90 Lexical-Pragmatics Case Studies
1. The bottle is empty.
Adjustment: pragmatic approximation. Intended reading: empty enough for the relevant use. A few drops may remain without defeating ordinary usage.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
2. The hall is full.
Adjustment: threshold adjustment. Intended reading: no more relevant capacity. Literal maximum physical occupancy may not be required.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
3. The table is clean.
Adjustment: contextual standard. Intended reading: clean enough for current purpose. A laboratory and a dining room can impose different standards.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
4. The report is finished.
Adjustment: task-relative completion. Intended reading: meets current endpoint. Minor formatting changes may remain.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
5. She’s tall.
Adjustment: comparison-class narrowing. Intended reading: tall relative to relevant group. Standard depends on age, population and context.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
6. That’s expensive.
Adjustment: contextual scale. Intended reading: high price relative to comparison set. A price can be expensive for one category but cheap for another.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
7. The station is near.
Adjustment: spatial approximation. Intended reading: within contextually acceptable distance. Near for walking differs from near for intercity travel.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
8. I’ll be there at six.
Adjustment: temporal approximation. Intended reading: around six in casual context. Precision depends on stakes and convention.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
9. I’ve told you a thousand times.
Adjustment: hyperbole. Intended reading: many repetitions. Literal count is normally not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
10. This bag weighs a ton.
Adjustment: hyperbole. Intended reading: very heavy. The listener interprets intensity rather than literal mass.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
11. It’s boiling in here.
Adjustment: hyperbole/loose use. Intended reading: extremely hot. Indoor air is not literally boiling.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
12. I’m starving.
Adjustment: hyperbole/loose use. Intended reading: very hungry. Everyday use can broaden beyond literal starvation.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
13. She exploded with anger.
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: sudden intense emotional expression. Physical explosion is not asserted.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
14. A warm welcome
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: friendly positive reception. Temperature vocabulary maps to social affect.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
15. A cold reply
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: emotionally distant response. Literal temperature is irrelevant.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
16. A heavy responsibility
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: burdensome obligation. Weight maps onto psychological burden.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
17. A light workload
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: small/manageable burden. Physical mass is not involved.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
18. A clear explanation
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: easy to understand. Visual clarity maps onto cognitive accessibility.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
19. A dark period
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: difficult or unhappy time. Light level is not the central meaning.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
20. The conversation moved forward.
Adjustment: metaphorical motion. Intended reading: made progress. No physical motion is required.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
21. We reached a conclusion.
Adjustment: metaphorical motion/path. Intended reading: arrived at an intellectual endpoint. Conclusion is conceptual Goal.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
22. She attacked the argument.
Adjustment: metaphorical action. Intended reading: criticised strongly. No physical violence is asserted.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
23. The evidence supports the claim.
Adjustment: metaphorical support. Intended reading: provides evidential backing. Physical support becomes epistemic relation.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
24. The idea collapsed.
Adjustment: metaphorical structural failure. Intended reading: lost viability. No physical object need fall.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
25. The theory has strong foundations.
Adjustment: metaphorical structure. Intended reading: well-supported basis. Building language frames abstract reasoning.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
26. The market is nervous.
Adjustment: institutional/metonymic broadening. Intended reading: market participants show uncertainty. An abstract institution stands for people and behaviour.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
27. Singapore decided to change the policy.
Adjustment: metonymic institutional reference. Intended reading: government or relevant authority acted. Country name stands for decision-making institution.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
28. The classroom was asleep.
Adjustment: hyperbolic/metonymic. Intended reading: most people were inactive or sleepy. Room itself cannot literally sleep.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
29. The whole office is sick.
Adjustment: collective loose use. Intended reading: many members affected. Not necessarily every single person.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
30. Everyone knows that.
Adjustment: pragmatic domain restriction. Intended reading: everyone relevant in context. Universal quantifier is often conversationally restricted.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
31. Nobody cares.
Adjustment: pragmatic domain restriction/hyperbole. Intended reading: no relevant person appears to care. Literal global nobody is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
32. Always late.
Adjustment: pragmatic frequency broadening. Intended reading: habitually or repeatedly late. Not necessarily every occasion without exception.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
33. Never listens.
Adjustment: pragmatic frequency broadening. Intended reading: habitually fails to listen. Ordinary criticism may tolerate exceptions.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
34. The room was silent.
Adjustment: contextual approximation. Intended reading: no relevant audible activity. Tiny background sounds may remain.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
35. The street was empty.
Adjustment: contextual approximation. Intended reading: no relevant people/vehicles. Dustbins and buildings remain.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
36. The glass is empty.
Adjustment: functional threshold. Intended reading: contains no relevant drink. Air remains inside.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
37. The glass is full.
Adjustment: functional threshold. Intended reading: filled to normal usable capacity. Space may remain at the top.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
38. The child is asleep.
Adjustment: category application. Intended reading: sleeping enough for ordinary classification. Sleep has physiological complexity beyond lexical category.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
39. The computer is dead.
Adjustment: metaphorical/technical broadening. Intended reading: not functioning/no power. Biological death is not involved.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
40. The battery is dying.
Adjustment: metaphorical process. Intended reading: losing remaining power. Life-cycle vocabulary maps to device function.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
41. The phone woke up.
Adjustment: metaphorical technical use. Intended reading: became active. Animate vocabulary maps to system state.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
42. Kill the process.
Adjustment: technical metaphor. Intended reading: terminate software process. No living patient exists.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
43. Open the file.
Adjustment: conventional broadening. Intended reading: make file accessible in software. No physical lid opens.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
44. Close the app.
Adjustment: conventional broadening. Intended reading: terminate/hide application session. Physical closure is metaphorical/conventional.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
45. Save the document.
Adjustment: conventional technical sense. Intended reading: store current data state. Rescue meaning has specialised into computing use.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
46. The page is heavy.
Adjustment: contextual ambiguity. Intended reading: could mean physical weight or computational load. Context selects relevant scale.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
47. The language is strong.
Adjustment: contextual narrowing. Intended reading: wording is forceful/effective. Physical strength is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
48. A strong argument
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: well-supported/persuasive. Strength maps to evidential quality.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
49. Weak evidence
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: insufficiently supporting evidence. Physical weakness is not involved.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
50. The explanation is thin.
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: lacks detail/substance. Physical thickness maps to informational content.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
51. A rich vocabulary
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: varied/developed lexical resources. Financial wealth is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
52. Poor vocabulary
Adjustment: evaluative narrowing. Intended reading: limited lexical resources. Economic poverty is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
53. The question is hard.
Adjustment: contextual scale. Intended reading: difficult for relevant solver/task. Physical hardness is not involved.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
54. Soft skills
Adjustment: conventional metaphor. Intended reading: interpersonal/non-technical capabilities. Texture is irrelevant.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
55. Hard data
Adjustment: conventional metaphor. Intended reading: firm/quantitative evidence. Physical hardness maps to evidential firmness.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
56. A sharp distinction
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: clear precise separation. Edge sharpness maps to conceptual boundary.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
57. A blunt answer
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: direct without cushioning. Tool shape maps to interpersonal style.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
58. A bright student
Adjustment: metaphorical conventional sense. Intended reading: intelligent/quick learner. Light output is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
59. A brilliant idea
Adjustment: conventional broadening. Intended reading: excellent/ingenious idea. Brightness becomes evaluation.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
60. A flat response
Adjustment: metaphorical affect. Intended reading: emotionally unexpressive. Geometry maps to prosody or affect.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
61. A deep question
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: conceptually profound. Physical depth maps to intellectual complexity.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
62. A shallow answer
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: superficial treatment. Physical depth maps to conceptual depth.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
63. The plan is solid.
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: reliable/well-formed plan. Material solidity maps to robustness.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
64. The schedule is flexible.
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: adaptable. Physical bendability maps to planning.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
65. Rigid rules
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: inflexible constraints. Physical stiffness maps to institutional inflexibility.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
66. A narrow definition
Adjustment: metaphorical/technical use. Intended reading: restricted scope. Spatial width maps to conceptual range.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
67. A broad category
Adjustment: metaphorical/technical use. Intended reading: wide inclusion range. Spatial width maps to category scope.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
68. The claim is loose.
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: insufficiently constrained/precise. Physical looseness maps to logical precision.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
69. A tight definition
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: carefully constrained scope. Physical tightness maps to semantic boundary.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
70. The idea is alive.
Adjustment: metaphorical broadening. Intended reading: active/influential. Biological life maps to social persistence.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
71. A dead metaphor
Adjustment: technical/conventional use. Intended reading: metaphor no longer felt as vivid. Biological death becomes metalinguistic classification.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
72. The word is frozen.
Adjustment: technical metaphor. Intended reading: fixed in expression/history/context. Temperature maps to immobility.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
73. Frozen assets
Adjustment: conventional metaphor. Intended reading: temporarily inaccessible financial resources. Coldness maps to restriction.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
74. A frozen screen
Adjustment: technical broadening. Intended reading: unresponsive display. Coldness maps to lack of dynamic response.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
75. The price exploded.
Adjustment: hyperbolic metaphor. Intended reading: rose very rapidly. Explosion maps to sudden magnitude change.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
76. Sales collapsed.
Adjustment: metaphorical event. Intended reading: fell dramatically. Structural failure maps to quantitative decline.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
77. Interest cooled.
Adjustment: metaphorical temperature. Intended reading: enthusiasm decreased. Temperature maps to affect.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
78. Tension rose.
Adjustment: metaphorical vertical scale. Intended reading: increased intensity. Height maps to quantity.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
79. Confidence sank.
Adjustment: metaphorical vertical scale. Intended reading: decreased sharply. Downward motion maps to negative change.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
80. The issue is sensitive.
Adjustment: contextual narrowing. Intended reading: requires careful treatment. Physical sensitivity extends to social handling.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
81. That topic is toxic.
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: socially harmful or corrosive. Poison maps to interactional danger.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
82. The comment was poisonous.
Adjustment: metaphorical evaluative use. Intended reading: malicious/harmful. Literal toxicity is not intended.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
83. The room is warm.
Adjustment: literal or pragmatic. Intended reading: temperature above contextual neutral. Context decides physical threshold.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
84. Her voice was warm.
Adjustment: metaphorical. Intended reading: friendly/affectionate tone. Same lexical form enters social-affect interpretation.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
85. The colour is warm.
Adjustment: conventional domain sense. Intended reading: red/orange/yellow-associated palette. Aesthetic terminology conventionalises metaphor.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
86. The evidence is cold.
Adjustment: marked metaphor. Intended reading: detached/unemotional evidence if context supports it. Not every possible metaphor is conventional or natural.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
87. This essay is clean.
Adjustment: context-dependent broadening. Intended reading: free of errors/clutter if writing context supports it. Pragmatic interpretation depends strongly on discourse.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
88. This code is clean.
Adjustment: conventional domain sense. Intended reading: well-structured/readable code. Repeated domain use becomes conventionalised.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
89. The result is dirty.
Adjustment: domain-sensitive use. Intended reading: contaminated, corrupted or methodologically compromised depending field. Technical register can narrow interpretation.
Literal-baseline task: state the strict lexical interpretation first. Then identify which contextual assumption makes the ordinary intended reading more relevant. The learner should show what semantic feature is relaxed, strengthened or restricted.
Boundary task: change the context so the loose interpretation would become misleading. For example, technical measurement may require literal emptiness where casual kitchen talk tolerates residue. This demonstrates that pragmatic adjustment is conditional, not arbitrary.
Production task: rewrite the sentence for a setting requiring greater precision, then for casual conversation. Compare how much interpretive work is left to the reader. The best wording depends on audience, stakes and purpose.
50 Lexical-Pragmatics Learning Labs
1. Literal vs intended meaning
Literal vs intended meaning begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
2. Narrow a category
Narrow a category begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
3. Broaden a category
Broaden a category begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
4. Adjust a threshold
Adjust a threshold begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
5. Choose a comparison class
Choose a comparison class begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
6. Interpret a round number
Interpret a round number begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
7. Interpret hyperbole
Interpret hyperbole begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
8. Interpret approximation
Interpret approximation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
9. Interpret metaphor
Interpret metaphor begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
10. Interpret metonymy
Interpret metonymy begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
11. Separate polysemy from adjustment
Separate polysemy from adjustment begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
12. Separate ambiguity from underspecification
Separate ambiguity from underspecification begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
13. Identify implicature
Identify implicature begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
14. Identify explicature
Identify explicature begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
15. Calibrate empty/full
Calibrate empty/full begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
16. Calibrate clean/dirty
Calibrate clean/dirty begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
17. Calibrate near/far
Calibrate near/far begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
18. Calibrate tall/short
Calibrate tall/short begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
19. Calibrate expensive/cheap
Calibrate expensive/cheap begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
20. Calibrate finished/unfinished
Calibrate finished/unfinished begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
21. Calibrate success
Calibrate success begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
22. Calibrate relevance
Calibrate relevance begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
23. Rewrite loose wording precisely
Rewrite loose wording precisely begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
24. Rewrite precise wording conversationally
Rewrite precise wording conversationally begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
25. Legal-language precision
Legal-language precision begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
26. Scientific-language precision
Scientific-language precision begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
27. Mathematical precision
Mathematical precision begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
28. Advertising interpretation
Advertising interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
29. News-claim interpretation
News-claim interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
30. Fictional metaphor interpretation
Fictional metaphor interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
31. Humour interpretation
Humour interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
32. Irony interpretation
Irony interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
33. Sarcasm interpretation
Sarcasm interpretation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
34. Corpus conventionality check
Corpus conventionality check begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
35. Dictionary conventional-sense check
Dictionary conventional-sense check begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
36. Translation adjustment
Translation adjustment begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
37. L2 over-literal repair
L2 over-literal repair begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
38. Reading inference
Reading inference begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
39. Listening inference
Listening inference begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
40. Speaking calibration
Speaking calibration begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
41. Writing calibration
Writing calibration begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
42. Register shift
Register shift begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
43. Genre shift
Genre shift begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
44. Audience shift
Audience shift begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
45. Context-removal test
Context-removal test begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
46. Context-addition test
Context-addition test begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
47. Boundary-case design
Boundary-case design begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
48. Ad hoc concept explanation
Ad hoc concept explanation begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
49. Pragmatic error log
Pragmatic error log begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
50. Final interpretation audit
Final interpretation audit begins with a context rich enough to support one plausible adjustment. Learners write the dictionary-like baseline, then the context-specific interpretation. The difference between those two descriptions is the learning object.
Next remove or change one contextual assumption. Ask whether the same interpretation survives. If it does not, identify what the original context contributed. This keeps the learner from storing the pragmatic adjustment as though it were automatically part of every future use.
Finish by choosing wording for two audiences. One context should tolerate ordinary loose language; the other should require greater explicit precision. Explain which lexical choice reduces ambiguity or overstatement. Pragmatic mastery is control over calibration, not simply the ability to detect figurative language.
Lexical Pragmatics FAQ
What is lexical pragmatics?
The study of how contextual inference adjusts the contribution of word meanings in particular utterances.
What is lexical narrowing?
Restricting a broad encoded concept to a contextually relevant subtype or range.
What is lexical broadening?
Extending or loosening an encoded concept beyond its strict conventional boundaries.
What is an ad hoc concept?
A context-specific interpretation constructed for the current utterance in some pragmatic theories.
What is loose use?
Using a word approximately or less strictly than its literal definition would require.
What is approximation?
A controlled departure from exactness where a close value or category is sufficient for the communicative purpose.
What is hyperbole?
Deliberate exaggeration used to communicate intensity, evaluation or attitude rather than literal magnitude.
How is metaphor related to lexical pragmatics?
Metaphorical interpretation can be analysed as broadening or adjustment of lexical concepts in context.
How is polysemy different?
Polysemy concerns conventional stored senses; pragmatic adjustment can create occasion-specific interpretations without requiring a separate dictionary sense.
What is underspecification?
When encoded meaning leaves aspects of interpretation open for contextual completion.
What is vagueness?
Flexible category boundaries or thresholds that do not specify one exact cutoff.
Why can empty be true when a few drops remain?
Ordinary use can set a task-relative threshold where negligible residue is ignored.
Why can full be true below physical capacity?
The relevant standard may be normal usable capacity rather than literal maximum volume.
Why is tall context-dependent?
Tallness is evaluated against a comparison class such as children of the same age or buildings in the same city.
Are round numbers always approximate?
No. Context can make ten exact or approximate.
Can context make a word mean anything?
No. Conventional meaning, grammar, world knowledge and communicative relevance constrain plausible adjustment.
What is the difference between explicature and implicature?
Explicature develops explicitly communicated content from linguistic form plus pragmatic inference; implicature is indirectly communicated beyond it.
How does lexical pragmatics help reading?
It prevents over-literal interpretation and helps readers calibrate context-specific word meaning.
How does it help listening?
Listeners rapidly adjust lexical meanings using shared situation, prosody and discourse.
How does it help writing?
Writers can choose when to rely on shared pragmatic inference and when to state meanings precisely.
Why is it important in legal or scientific writing?
High-stakes genres often reduce tolerance for loose boundaries and require operational definitions.
How does it affect translation?
The translator must reproduce the intended context-adjusted meaning, not merely dictionary equivalence.
How do dictionaries help?
They provide conventional senses and usage examples that form the baseline for contextual interpretation.
How do corpora help?
They show whether an apparent pragmatic extension is recurrent enough to be conventionalising or genre-specific.
How should lexical pragmatics be taught?
Use paired contexts, literal baselines, boundary changes and audience shifts rather than abstract definitions alone.
What is the danger of over-literal reading?
Readers can derive absurd or overly strong interpretations of ordinary loose speech.
What is the danger of over-pragmatic reading?
Readers can invent meanings unsupported by lexical and textual evidence.
What is calibrated interpretation?
Balancing conventional lexical meaning with the contextual adjustment genuinely licensed by the utterance.
Where should I continue?
Use the Mastery Club Vocabulary apex, Polysemy, Context, Metaphor and Metonymy, Register, Semantic Change and Corpus Linguistics.
Evidence Note
Cambridge’s treatment of lexical pragmatics within Relevance Theory describes comprehension as involving more than accessing dictionary-like concepts: listeners routinely infer how lexical concepts are intended on a particular occasion, including processes of broadening and narrowing and the construction of context-specific concepts. The approach is one influential theory among several pragmatic traditions, so this article uses its terminology as a practical explanatory framework rather than claiming that all linguists analyse contextual word meaning identically.
Further reading: Cambridge: Lexical Pragmatics; Cambridge: Construction Grammar and Relevance Theory.
The Mastery Club: Continue the Vocabulary Tree
Return to Vocabulary | Primary 1 to Adult & Career Vocabulary. Continue to Polysemy and Multiple Meanings, Context in Vocabulary, Metaphor and Metonymy, Register and Appropriateness and Corpus Linguistics.
The governing rule: do not stop at the dictionary meaning, and do not abandon it either. Start with the lexical core, justify the contextual adjustment and keep the interpretation no stronger than the evidence allows.