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ExplanationIntermediate

How does the concept of shared meaning evolve during a speech according to the text?

The concept of shared meaning evolves during a speech as the speaker and audience engage in a mutual understanding of the message. Initially, the lowest level of shared meaning occurs when the speaker merely captures the audience's attention, but as the speech progresses, a deeper level of understanding can be achieved through interaction and feedback.

Shared meaning in a speech is defined as the mutual understanding between the speaker and the audience. It begins at a basic level when the speaker has simply gained the audience's attention. As the speech develops, opportunities for interaction and feedback allow for a higher degree of shared meaning, where both the speaker and audience co-create the meaning of the speech together. This evolution is influenced by context, audience needs, and the specific goals of the speech, which help to enhance the connection between the speaker and the audience.

Key points

  • Shared meaning is the mutual understanding between speaker and audience.
  • It starts with capturing the audience's attention.
  • Deeper understanding evolves through interaction and feedback.
  • Context and audience needs influence the evolution of shared meaning.
  • Both speaker and audience co-create the meaning of the speech.
Source:A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking· Becoming a Public Speaker· p. 49–60

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Cover of A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking

A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking

Dan O'Hair & Hannah Rubenstein & Rob Stewart

SIXTH EDITION · Bedford/St. Martin’s

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