How Do You Spell PERFORMATIVE?

Pronunciation: [pəfˈɔːmətˌɪv] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "performative" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). It is spelled /pərˈfɔrmətɪv/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by stress on the second syllable with the "or" sound. The "m" sound is followed by the "ə" sound and then the stressed "tiv" syllable. This word is commonly used to refer to language that not only describes an action but also performs that action, such as saying "I promise" which not only describes the act of promising but also constitutes the act itself.

PERFORMATIVE Meaning and Definition

1. Performative is an adjective that refers to an utterance or action that not only describes or represents a particular occurrence but also brings about that occurrence itself. It highlights the performative aspect of language, emphasizing the power of words to create, enforce, or alter reality. Derived from the field of speech act theory, the term was first coined by the philosopher J.L. Austin.

   Performative statements are performative in nature, meaning that when uttered, they don't merely describe a state of affairs but actually perform an act or bring something into being. Examples include the pronouncement of a marriage ceremony or a judge proclaiming a verdict in a court. In these cases, the utterance itself has a direct impact on the external world by transforming it through social conventions and expectations.

   The performative function of language is marked by its inherent capacity to shape and construct social reality, identities, and relationships. By employing performative statements, individuals invoke specific institutionalized practices, norms, and rituals. These statements can be ritualistic or ceremonial, often found in contexts like weddings, oaths, promises, or declarations.

   Furthermore, the concept of performative extends beyond verbal utterances to include physical acts or gestures that carry performative significance. Examples include the act of waving to greet someone, saluting as a sign of respect, or nodding to indicate agreement.

   In summary, performative refers to the power and capacity of language and actions to create or transform reality, emphasizing the performative dimension of speech acts and gestures.

Common Misspellings for PERFORMATIVE

• Purforative
• performativiy
• performativety
• Perfurative
• Perferative

Etymology of PERFORMATIVE

The word "performative" has its roots in the field of linguistics and was coined by English philosopher, J.L. Austin, in the mid-20th century.

It is derived from the Latin word "performare", which is a combination of "per" (meaning "thoroughly" or "through") and "forma" (meaning "shape" or "form"). In Latin, "performare" meant "to carry out" or "to fulfill".

Austin used the term "performative" to refer to a type of speech act that, when uttered, not only describes an action but also performs the action itself. He distinguished between "constative" (descriptive) utterances, which aim to state a fact about the world, and "performatives", which aim to bring about changes in the world they describe.

Plural form of PERFORMATIVE is PERFORMATIVES