An example of a verbal act is an action performed through speaking or writing, where the words themselves are the action.
Understanding Verbal Acts
In many contexts, particularly in law and communication studies, a "verbal act" refers to a statement or utterance that has legal or social significance because of the very fact that it was made. Unlike statements used purely as evidence of the truth of what was said, verbal acts are the act in question. They are not introduced to prove the truth of the assertion, but to show that the assertion was made.
Think of it as using words to do something rather than just say something about the world.
Specific Examples of Verbal Acts
Based on common definitions and the references provided, here are some concrete examples that illustrate what a verbal act is:
- A person making a promise to do something. The act of promising is completed the moment the words "I promise..." are uttered. The focus isn't on whether they will fulfill the promise, but on the fact that the promise itself was made.
- A witness testifying in court. When a witness states, "I saw the defendant at the scene," this testimony is often a verbal act. Its significance lies in the fact that the statement was made under oath in court, which constitutes the act of giving evidence, regardless of its truthfulness (though truthfulness is also relevant).
- A lawyer drafting a legal document. The process of writing a will, contract, or complaint involves performing legal actions through written words. The document is the legal act (or part of it), not just a description of an act.
These examples highlight how words, whether spoken or written, can constitute legally or socially significant actions themselves.
