Performative

The term 'performative' describes language or actions that don't just *describe* a state of affairs but actually *bring about* that state through the act of saying or doing them. It relates to utterances, gestures, or events that accomplish something, creating a new reality or changing existing circumstances simply by being uttered or enacted. The focus is on the *doing* rather than merely the *saying*. This differs from constative utterances, which report facts. Key to understanding the performative is recognizing that success hinges on context, authority, and shared understanding between the speaker/actor and the audience/receiver. Failure can result in an 'infelicitous' act, invalidating the intended outcome. These actions often involve declarations, promises, or commands that carry inherent force.

Performative meaning with examples

• At a wedding, the words 'I now pronounce you husband and wife' are a classic performative example. The act of saying these words, by an authorized officiant, *creates* the marital bond. Without the utterance, the couple remains unmarried. The words themselves, in the correct context, are what performs the act. This isn't merely describing a state; it is *creating* one.
• A judge's sentence, like 'I sentence you to five years imprisonment,' is another performative. This spoken sentence, uttered by an authorized individual, *enforces* the punishment. The act of saying the words carries legal weight and directly alters the individual's freedom. The words *become* the action, with tangible real-world consequences.
• When a captain shouts 'I declare this ship seaworthy!', it isn't just a description; it's a performative declaration. Assuming the captain has the authority and appropriate inspection has occurred, the utterance *officially deems* the ship safe to sail. It *makes* something true in a specific environment. This act makes the ship safe (officially).
• In a corporate setting, a CEO stating 'You are promoted to Vice President' performs a change in the employee's status and responsibility. The announcement changes their role within the company. It is a formal announcement which gives authority for an action to commence, and that's what's so performative about the event of saying it.