This paper contributes to elucidate Jürgen Habermas’ concept of communication. From Habermas’ distinction between “expected” and “emanating” effects, the study shows that, although the aim of any speech is to have an effect, Habermas stands out for his apprehension of the effect of communication. Thus, contrary to the expected effect which consists in achieving an intentional goal, Habermas sees rather the effect emanating which is a coupling or reciprocal effect of the interlocutors.

Keywords: communication, effect emanating, expected effect, intercomprehension.