For me the reading was quite informative. Although it was not easy to read, I learned a lot about language and how competence in this field is structured.
Figure 8.1 which shows the language competence is very interesting. It is familiar to me, though, as I think it is very similar to the scheme how to grade an essay.
The seven functions of language drew my attention completely. On the one hand, the instrumental function is pretty logical. On the other hand, the rest of them are interesting to read about. I find the personal function and the imaginative function the most capturing. Talking about feelings is difficult for many people and might even be more difficult in some cultures where talking and showing feelings is not valued. Moreover, the imaginative function I consider most important for what is human kind without ideas and dreams? Fairy tails and stories mostly transport essential lessons about life and are thus very valueable.
Also, the sociocultural aspect is an important fact to consider when communicating with people from foreign countries. As there are four meanings, as Thun says, a message can be understood, a person might interpret the message in a different way than intended.
The five levels of formality are quite interesting too. It might be of advantage to adapt one' s vocabulary and way of expression to the style one is using to communicate with others effectively.
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