The Theory of Illocutionary Acts

The Theory of Illocutionary Acts, developed by philosopher J.L. Austin, explains how we do things with words beyond just stating facts. When we speak, we're often performing actions—like promising, warning, or requesting—called illocutionary acts. For example, saying "I promise" isn't just sharing information; it's an act of promising. This theory helps us understand that language isn't only about conveying content but also about performing specific actions through speech. It highlights the social and practical function of language in everyday communication.