Which function of language does 'pretend play' fulfill according to Halliday?

The imaginative function of language, as described by M.A.K. Halliday, is primarily involved in enabling children to create and explore new worlds through their imagination. During pretend play, children often invent scenarios, take on roles, and construct narratives that are not bound by reality. This process allows them not only to express their creativity but also to experiment with language in a playful context.

In pretend play, children might use language to transform everyday situations into elaborate stories, which gives them the opportunity to play with vocabulary, grammar, and social dynamics in a way that reflects their understanding of the world. This aspect of imaginative play is crucial for cognitive development, as it fosters problem-solving skills and empathy by allowing children to step into the shoes of others and see situations from different perspectives.

The other functions of language mentioned, such as the referential function, which focuses on conveying information, or the interpersonal function that involves social interactions, do not capture the essence of what occurs during pretend play, which is centered around creativity and fantasy. The regulatory function also relates to controlling behavior or eliciting responses from others, which isn't the primary focus during imaginative play. Thus, the imaginative function stands out as the most fitting representation of what language achieves during pretend play.