Interpretive Use of Quotation Expressions in Spoken Language : Focusing on Relevance Theory

This study analyzes quotation expressions in spoken language from a pragmatic perspective. To this end, it examines the characteristics and usage patterns of spoken quotation expressions based on Relevance theory(Sperber & Wilson 1986/1995). Thise study seeks to describe the structural features and pragmatic meanings of spoken quotation expressions comprehensively. Spoken quotation expressions can be categorized into four types: pure, direct, mixed, and indirect quotation expressions. Each type is analyzed within the framework of the relevance theory. Spoken quotation expressions adjust formal and content resemblance to account for contextual factors and the listener’s understanding process. This highlights the speaker’s intention to maximize the relevance of the utterance. Atypical quotation expressions suggest the need to supplement the traditional dichotomous approach. This study attempts to provide a unified explanation for the diverse patterns of spoken quotation expressions. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of analyzing the context and speaker intention from a pragmatic perspective. This approach opens up new possibilities for future research on spoken quotation expressions.