Neustic
/ˈnjuː.stɪk/noun
Relating to the part of an utterance that expresses the speaker’s attitude, intention, or commitment, especially a command or assertion.
Did you know?In modern philosophy of language, the neustic is the element that turns words from mere description into an assertion, command, or expression of commitment.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*neu-
“To nod, signal, or give a sign”
Ancient Greek
Greek
νεύειν (neuein)
“To nod or make a sign”
Ancient Greek
Greek
νευστικός (neustikos)
“Nodding, inclined, or giving assent”
19th Century
English
neustic
“A term formed from Greek neustikos for something expressing inclination or assent”
20th Century
English
neustic
“The volitional or performative element of an utterance, contrasted with its descriptive content”
Modern English
English
neustic
“Expressing a speaker’s attitude, intention, or commitment in language”