The functions of silence

摘要: Abstract The roles of eloquent silence in each the six functions language Roman Jakobson's communicative model (1960) are considered. First, pause, being outside language, is differentiated from (eloquent) silence, a means chosen by speaker for significant verbal communication alongside speech; it not listener's nor silencing speaker. Linguistic and non-linguistic contributions to study then briefly reviewed. Next, analyzed. (Eloquent) as linguistic sign, conveys information referential function (zero-sign passive constructions); an iconic affective way expressing emotions (e.g., emptiness, intimacy) emotive function. In respect conative function, performs direct indirect speech acts. Caesura, metaphors ellipses just few examples poetic silence. Silence maintaining contact alliance phatic various metalinguistic range its discourse marker reflecting ‘right silence’.