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

See all articles by Hugo M. Mialon

Hugo M. Mialon

Emory University - Department of Economics

Sue H. Mialon

Emory University

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

Mialon, Hugo M. and Mialon, Sue H., Go Figure: The Strategy of Nonliteral Speech (September 2012). Emory Public Law Research Paper No. 10-135, Emory Law and Economics Research Paper No. 10-87, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1687160 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1687160

Hugo M. Mialon (Contact Author)

Emory University - Department of Economics ( email )

1602 Fishburne Drive
Atlanta, GA 30322
United States

Sue H. Mialon

Emory University ( email )

Department of Economics
1602 Fishburne Dr.
Atlanta, GA 30322
United States
404-712-8169 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://www.suemialon.net

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