Metalingual function

The metalingual function is associated with the code and is only present in a latent form. It only steps into the foreground when the verbal code used is implicitly or explicitly developed as a central theme. This often stems from a disruption in the communication-process; for example, if two different 'languages' are used of if two different codes within one language are used^5.10. We have already seen some fragments with a predominantly metalingual function in Pirelli's Miracle Elixir, although it can be argued that because of the somewhat peculiar communication structure in this song it could could be defended that this song is a mixture of phatic, appellative and metalingual function.

A better example of a dialogue having a predominantly metalingual character is this rhyming ''game'' from A Little Priest:

MRS. LOVETT: Now let's see...we've got tinker.
TODD:(Looks at it) Something pinker.
MRS. LOVETT: Tailor?
TODD:(Shakes his head) Something - paler
MRS. LOVETT: Potter?
TODD: Something-hotter.
MRS. LOVETT: Butler?
TODD: Something- subtler.
MRS. LOVETT: Locksmith?
TODD: Something-(Slumps, defeated)

The metalingual function often stems from a disruption in the communication-process. When two or more figures speak different languages, there are often many utterances with metalingual function. With different languages I mean two things. First when two figures really speak two languages and secondly is when two figures use different codes within one language such as dialects, sociolects and idiolects. Although none of this occurs in Sweeney Todd I have to mention it for the sake of completeness.