What does implied meaning refer to?

Implied meaning refers to situations where there is a discrepancy between what is explicitly stated and the underlying message or intention behind those words. This concept highlights the nuances of communication, illustrating that language often conveys more than just its literal interpretation.

When a speaker implies something, they may rely on contextual cues, tone, or body language to communicate an idea that isn't explicitly articulated. This often occurs in conversations where sarcasm, humor, or cultural references are involved. For instance, saying "great job" in a sarcastic tone when someone has clearly underperformed showcases the implied meaning that is contrary to the literal interpretation.

In contrast, the other options focus on either the relationship being identical between what is said and its meaning or limiting the scope of interpretation to just the literal words, which does not account for the richness of implied communication. Understanding implied meaning is crucial for effective interpretation, as it allows interpreters to convey the true intent behind a speaker's words.