Referenzsatz

Referenzsatz is a term used in German linguistics and philosophy of language to denote a sentence that serves to fix or identify the referent of a referring expression within a discourse. In analyses of proper names, definite descriptions and pronouns, a Referenzsatz is understood as a sentence that establishes which entity in the real world is being talked about, thereby anchoring reference across subsequent discourse.

Function and distinction

A Referenzsatz contrasts with sentences that merely ascribe properties to an entity without fixing its identity. While a descriptive sentence like “Der Mann mit dem roten Hut ist klug” ascribes properties, a Referenzsatz aims to make explicit which specific individual is intended. In this sense, Referenzsätze contribute to discourse coherence by establishing or re-identifying referents for later anaphoric or deictic expressions.

Usage and examples

In practice, a clause that directly identifies a referent can function as a Referenzsatz: for example, “Der heutige König von Frankreich ist müde” highlights the referent of the definite description. More typical in analysis are constructions that introduce or re-identify an entity in a dialogue, such as “Dieser Mann dort ist mein Bruder,” where the nominal phrase points to a specific individual and the sentence reinforces that reference within the discourse context.

Relation to theories

The notion is discussed in the context of theories of reference, including proper names, definite descriptions, and discourse representation. It intersects with topics like presupposition, deixis, and anaphora, and is sometimes referenced in discussions of how language fixes or shifts the reference of expressions across narrative or conversational settings.

See also

Reference (linguistics), Deixis, Anaphora, Definite description, Frege, Russell.