We shall say that the degree of pragmatic adequacy of a functional grammar is higher to the extent that it fits in more easily with such a wider, pragmatic theory. In particular, we want a functional grammar to reveal those properties of linguistic expressions which are relevant to the manner in which they are used, and to do this in such a way that these properties can be related to the rules and principles governing verbal interaction. This means that we must not think of linguistic expressions as isolated objects, but as instruments which are used by a Speaker in order to evoke some intended interpretation in the Addressee, within a context defined by preceding expressions, and within a setting defined by the essential parameters of the speech situation.
- Dik (1989), a pag.12-13