Go Figure: The Strategy of Nonliteral Speech
Emory Public Law Research Paper No. 10-135
Emory Law and Economics Research Paper No. 10-87
39 Pages Posted: 5 Oct 2010 Last revised: 10 Jan 2014
Date Written: September 2012
Abstract
We develop a model of figurative or indirect speech, which may convey a meaning that differs from its literal meaning. The model yields analytical conditions for speech to be figurative in equilibrium and delivers a number of comparative statics results. For instance, it predicts that the likelihood of figurative speech is greater if the benefit to the listener of correctly understanding the speaker is greater. We then apply the model to analyze particular forms of indirect speech, including terseness, irony, and veiled bribery. Interestingly, the model provides a novel argument for the effectiveness of laws that strictly punish attempted bribery.
Keywords: Literal Speech, Figurative Speech, Terseness, Irony, Bribery, Law
JEL Classification: D83, C72, Z11
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation