ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-HAR11-0005 · ATLAS 251

Precation

An earnest plea directing a hoped-for outcome toward another person or power.

Explanation

An earnest plea directing a hoped-for outcome toward another person or power. Makes dependence, hope and addressability visible at once.

Example

Grant us one more moment to find the missing connection.

Counterexample

We need more time.

Distinction

Optatio expresses a wish; precation addresses it as a plea to a responsive other.

Effect on thought and perception

Makes dependence, hope and addressability visible at once.

Resonance

A wish gains direction and waits for an answer from another.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Precation“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-HAR11-0005. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR11-0005

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR11-0005

The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.