Following negative search instructions: the role of visual context

Abstract One typical use of negation is to refer exceptions. In a visual display showing several similar items (majority) and one exception, referring the exception by negating majority should therefore be pragmatically felicitous. We investigated whether comprehenders are sensitive these pragmatic aspects when processing negative sentences having identify according in display. Experiment 1, participants read affirmative either or object strongly biased displays. Additionally, unbiased displays were implemented, equal numbers objects each type. Identification times correct referent shorter with independent sentence polarity. Also, picking exceptional item was faster than item, Thus, did not specifically profit from felicitous conditions negation. Critically, displays, highly salient, which might have initially drawn participant’s attention this object, resulting general speed-up. Therefore, 2, we used reduced saliency object. Again result specific speed-up due use. does seem facilitate identification an