tenor (linguistics)

In linguistics, "tenor" refers to the relationship between the speaker, the audience, and the context in which communication occurs. It encompasses the roles, attitudes, and emotions of those involved. For instance, when a teacher speaks to students, the tenor reflects their authoritative position and the students' receptive role. Understanding tenor helps us analyze how language varies depending on social dynamics and settings, influencing tone, formality, and choice of words. It’s a key aspect of effective communication as it shapes how messages are conveyed and interpreted.