Illocutionary acts are a concept in linguistics that refer to the intended meaning behind a speaker's words. When someone makes a statement, they are not just conveying information; they are also performing an action through their speech. For example, saying "I apologize" is not just stating a fact but is an act of apologizing. This idea is part of speech act theory, which explores how language functions in communication. These acts can be categorized into different types, such as requests, promises, or commands. Each type reflects the speaker's intention and the effect they hope to achieve. Understanding illocutionary acts helps clarify how language can influence social interactions and relationships, highlighting the importance of context in communication.