Gender-Based Politeness Strategies: A Case Study of the Department of English, University of Gujrat

Abstract

Gender-based differences in language use have been investigated by researchers for a long time. It has been observed that men and women comply with different linguistic norms in their speeches. This fact not only characterizes their individual style but also portrays their respective masculinity and femininity. However, it has been noted also that linguistic norms are not necessarily gender specific. In this regard, this research paper aims to analyze the politeness-based strategies used by male and female faculty members of the Department of English, University of Gujrat while making conversation. Data was collected through purposive sampling technique keeping in view Lakoff’s politeness principles. For this purpose, the lectures of two male and female faculty members were recorded. The collected data was analyzed to highlight which gender complies more with the principles of politeness, as depicted by Robin Lakoff. The findings proved female faculty members to be more polite as compared to male faculty members. The current research helps future researchers and readers to understand how language works spontaneously among different genders and how communication can be improved by pedagogics while using the politeness principles laid down by Robin Lakoff. Keywords: communication, gender, language use, lectures, politeness