Glossary - F

Finite / non finite
This word applies only to certain verbs. A verb in a sentence can exist on its own as in these…
Form and content
Form is what gives rise to meaning; without form, there can be no meaning. This form refers to…
Function
The function of a word is what it ‘does’ in its sentence, e.g. its function is to act as a…
False start
A false start is when a person feels the need to self-correct a turn of speech (see also…
Face
This is a term suggested by linguist Irving Goffman as a part of his theory that concerning the way…
Feedback
This describes a conversational turn that is aimed at supporting the other speaker (see…
Field
According to linguist Halliday, this is one aspects of language register. Field is ‘that which is…
Filler (or voice pause)
A non-lexical sound used to prevent a silence or pause that might lead to an interruption or second…
Fixed Expression / Cliche
An expression used as a part of ‘comfortable’, everyday speech that lacks the impact of an…
Floor
Used as in ‘holding/taking/yielding/controlling the floor’: this is a conversational analysis…
Flouting (a maxim)
when a turn works to surprise an interlocutor because it seems not to be ‘cooperative’ in the…

GCSE 9-1 English Language and Literature here