Figures of Speech and Intentions in British Political Interviews
1
(
Department of English Language, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
)
Majid Asgari
2
(
Department of English Teaching, Hidaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hidaj, Iran
)
3
(
Department of English Language and Linguistics, Faculty of Arts, Baghdad University, Iraq
)
Bahram Hadian
4
(
2Assistant Professor, Department of English, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad
University, Isfahan, Iran
)
Keywords: Figures of Speech, Political Interviews, Metaphor, Persuasion, Stylistic Analysis,
Abstract :
This paper discusses the use of figures of speech and communicative intentions behind such stylistic choices in British political interviews. By using a qualitative stylistic framework based on the models of Simpson (2004) and Leech and Short (2007), this research investigates the usage of metaphors, similes, and analogies by British politicians between 2009 and 2024. This study has found that such rhetorical devices are strategically utilized to reduce intricacy, create emotional appeals, and command authority. Key findings underline the fact that key metaphors constitute the framing of policies in an accessible and positive light, reinforcement of political positionality through similes, and projection of competence and trust through analogies. This is a very significant lacuna in literature, as almost all previous studies have focused on rhetorical devices in American political speeches rather than British interviews. It tries to show the purposes of such stylistic strategies and allow a bigger understanding of political communication in British contexts to linguists, political strategists, and media analysts. The findings point up the centrality of language in the engendering of public perception and offer insight into the persuasive functions of rhetorical devices in contemporary political discourse.
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