Final answer:
Direct quotations are used to show the exact words someone says, enclosed with quotation marks. They provide clarity and concrete evidence in writing. Proper punctuation and attributive tags are important to correctly integrate quotations into text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The exact words someone says are shown through the use of direct quotations. These are the verbatim words of a speaker or writer, enclosed within quotation marks in written text. For example, when documenting what someone said exactly, you might write: The crier said, "The King is dead! Long live the King!".
This method ensures that there is no ambiguity about what was stated, and precisely conveys the speaker's words and intentions. Quotations are not only effective in conveying dialogue or speech but are also valuable for providing concrete evidence in analysis, such as in film or book reviews.
When using quotations, it is essential to consider punctuation, such as commas, periods, and question marks, which help to integrate the quoted material smoothly into the surrounding text. Additionally, attributive tags such as 'he said' or 'she exclaimed' are often employed to clarify who is speaking. Careful attention to spelling and use of words is also important to ensure that the quotation reflects the original statement accurately.
Furthermore, in examining language and its effects, a philosopher named J.L. Austin studied the use of performatives in speech, where certain phrases like "I promise," or "I warn," are meant to carry out an action by the very act of saying them. Understanding these concepts and the precise usage of words helps us explore the full potential of language in communication.