IntroductionContext can be broadly defined as “the interrelated conditions under which something exists or occurs. “(prutting 1982 pg. 46) The study of pragmatics is significantly influenced by context, as, despite being incredibly multifaceted, it is distinctly shaped by a number of variables. These include; the conversation environment, the means of communication, the communication partner and the rules for the actual interaction (Prutting, 1982) In this article, the context that is deconstructed is that of a formal e-communication environment; communication via email. By analyzing the ways in which language is formulated and structured in a formal environment, this article seeks to unearth valid reasons for communication problems in this context and to develop an understanding of why this is so prevalent in face-to-face interaction. -mail. What is pragmatics? Before we can deconstruct pragmatics in a formal email context, it is important to understand exactly what pragmatics is. Defined as meaning in context (ref), pragmatics identifies how words can create meaning in a given social environment. It looks at the language in relation to its social context and the individual constructing the message rather than simply analyzing the meaning of the written words themselves. Much of what we understand about any language extends well beyond the literal meaning of words and sentences (Capelli, Nakagawa & Madden, 1990). This applies to both written and spoken words. Communication, by its nature, is a mutual partnership in which both parties are involved in its construction and interpretation. While verbally communicated messages are interpreted from an individual's verbal and nonverbal cues, the visual and auditory advantage is lost when...... middle of paper ...... and which ultimately results in problems with communication and misunderstandings on the part of recipients END. It is important for the recipient of a formal email to consider the sender's intentions and recognize the absence of physical pragmatic cues before reaching any conclusions. Conclusion As the reliance on email as a central means of communication continues to grow, the need for accurate communication methods grows, and with it the elimination of miscommunication errors. This article has explored the role pragmatics plays in the construction of email messages and assessed key errors that are made when transmitting messages, particularly in a formal environment. It is vital that the sender of any email message eliminates interpretative assumptions, regardless of their relationship to the recipient, and uses appropriate formal netiquette to ensure messages are clear and understood.