| Act | Function | Forms | Example |
|---|
| Representative | Commits the speaker to the truth of what has been said | Assertions, Conclusions | “It sure is a beautiful day.” |
| Directive | Attempts to get listeners to do things | Questions, Requests, Commands | “Can you loan me five dollars?” |
| Commissive | Commits speakers to future action | Promises, Threats | “I will always love you, no matter what happens.” |
| Expressive | Conveys a psychological or emotional state that the speaker is experiencing | Thanks, Apologies, Congratulations | “Thank you so much for the wonderful gift!” |
| Declarative | Produces dramatic, observable effects | Marriage Pronouncements, Firing Declarations | “From this point onward, you are no longer an employee of this organization.” |
| Note: The information in this table is adapted from Searle (1976). |