PAKISTANI TED TALKS: A CORPUS-BASED COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INTERACTIONAL METADISCOURSE MARKERS ACROSS GENDER

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the use of interactional metadiscourse features such as attitude markers, boosters, engagement markers, hedges, and self mentions by male and female speakers in the Pakistani TED Talks. The research objectives include identifying the interactional metadiscourse markers and their frequencies, examining their functions, and analyzing the similarities and differences between male and female speakers in the content. The data was gathered from a corpus of ten TED Talks (five delivered by male speakers and five by female speakers) sourced from YouTube. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach within a descriptive framework, the analysis employs Hyland’s (2005) model of metadiscourse markers, categorizing these features into interactional and interactive dimensions. Findings reveal that both genders strategically use these features to persuade and engage their audiences while expressing passion for their topics and influencing listeners' perspectives. Notably, female speakers exhibit higher frequencies of self-mentions and hedges, indicating a tentative tone aimed at fostering personal connections and enhancing engagement, while males show a tendency to use boosters and attitude markers, demonstrating a greater focus on personal evaluation and assertiveness. This results of the study contribute to a deeper academic understanding of language use in Pakistani English, contribute to discussions on gendered language, and serve as a practical resource for improving communication skills in Pakistani academic and digital settings.