Which term refers to a group of language users who function in the same context of use?

Which term refers to a group of language users who function in the same context of use?

• A. Contextual Clues
• B. Context of Use
• C. Discourse Community
• D. Denotative Meaning

Answer: (C)

A discourse community is a group of language users who share the same context of use, meaning they operate within the same communicative environment and follow common norms, genres, and expectations. Members use a shared repertoire of language—specific terms, formats, and rhetorical styles—that let them interpret messages and produce appropriate discourse for that particular field or setting. This concept captures why a group can function effectively together in a given context: they understand and anticipate how communication should happen within that community.

Contextual Clues are tips within text for meaning, not about a group identity. Context of Use describes the situational setting of communication but doesn’t name the group of people who share that context. Denotative Meaning is the literal dictionary meaning of a word, not about communities of language users.