Illocutionary constructions: (multiple source)-in-target metonymies, illocutionary ICMs, and specification links

This article revisits the notion of indirect speech acts (ISA) in the light of a weak formulation of the classical Literal Force Hypothesis. It is argued that ISAs are actually instances of unspecified illocutions, which allows for the positing of a conventionalization cline in their realization. Under these assumptions, we revise current theories of ISAs and make a number of proposals to overcome their limitations: (1) (Multiple source)-in-target metonymies and illocutionary ICMs are postulated to account for the motivation and rich conceptual fabric of illocutionary categories, respectively; and (2) a more flexible model of illocutionary constructions is sketched in terms of base configurations and specification links in order to explain the multi-faceted nature of illocutionary performance.

► A weak version of the Literal Force Hypothesis leads to a reformulation of ISAs. ► Illocutionary ICMs provide an exhaustive description of the meaning of speech acts. ► (Multiple source)-in-target metonymies motivate the performance of ISAs. ► Illocutionary base constructions are further specified through metonymic activation. ► Families of illocutionary constructions are structured through specification links.