The role of the pragmatic expectation of consistency in the resolution of the repeated definite reference during dialogue

Abstract

Conversation is guided by expectations of communicative behavior. These expectations allow interlocutors to interpret utterances and reach mutual understanding. The objective of the present study is to determine the role of the pragmatic expectation of consistency in the resolution of repeated definite reference in conversational settings. We generated an experimental situation in which, to resolve reference, listeners had to rely on the expectation of consistency, since the linguistic input left it underdetermined. Specifically, the reference contained a negation of the type 'the object is not the little lentil'. We manipulated the consistency of the speakers and the presence or absence of 'referential precedents'–i.e., temporary agreements to name entities during the dialogue. The analysis of object selection patterns and eye-movements revealed that listeners relied on the expectation of consistency, and that it is integrated at early stages of the interpretation process. In conclusion, the ambiguity of language can be overcome by our sensitivity to general patterns of behavior during dialogue, particularly, consistency.