Western Governors University (WGU) EDUC5262 SLO1 Practice Exam

A speech act refers to an utterance that performs a function in communication, where the act of speaking has a specific intent or effect. Promising to meet someone is a clear example of a speech act because it goes beyond merely conveying information; it involves making a commitment to a future action. This promise creates an obligation and involves the speaker's intention to fulfill it, which can lead to expectations from the other party.

In contrast, simply saying "dog" refers to an animal without performing an action or conveying an intent beyond identification. Asking a question about the weather, while it engages the listener's response, does not inherently commit the speaker to an action or create an obligation. Defining a word in a dictionary is informational and serves to clarify meaning but lacks the performative aspect of a speech act, as it does not involve a commitment or commitment to action. Thus, making a promise effectively embodies the characteristics of a speech act.