Exam 4: How We Use Language

Seth works in computers for a large company. He is asked to give a presentation to the top executives on current issues in technology. Halfway through his speech that includes issues such as adware, biometrics, and dongles, Seth realizes he has lost his audience due to his excessive use of

Celine asks her professor if she can give a speech on "friends with benefits". The professor agrees, thinking the topic will be on the benefits of friendship. Much to the professor's surprise, the speech is about friends who have sex with one another. Celine's professor did not realize that Celine was using a ______________ to make the topic sounds less explicit.

In a discussion with classmates, Helen proclaims, "Abortion should be illegal in the United States". A classmate points out that her statement is not a fact, which angers Helen. She is convinced that it is a fact that abortion should be illegal and says she can prove it. Having expressed an evaluation of what "should be", Helen is unable to see that she has made what kind of statement?

Although William's parents name him William, he grows up being called Billy. When he goes away to college, he introduces himself to his new friends as Will. He becomes frustrated when, returning home for the holidays, his family continues to call him Billy. Which statement about language best applies to his frustration?

A booster club at a local high school needs to raise money for the football team's trip to the state championships. They mail out a flyer offering potential sponsors different levels of sponsorship: $1,000 (diamond); $500 (platinum); $250 (gold); $100 (silver); $50 (bronze). The boosters were afraid that if they asked for $50 outright, many supporters would balk at the cost. But they hope that by using the __________ approach, the sponsors will think $50 is reasonable.

_____________ is language that disguises a speaker's true intentions.

Using the right words in a job interview or marriage proposal may make the difference between failure and success, because being a competent communicator requires us to use ______________ in a deliberate and informed way.

_____________ is the extent to which others perceive us to be competent and trustworthy.

What is a way humor does NOT enhance our communication and associations with others?