DECODING THE LANGUAGE OF MEDIA HEADLINES: ANALYSIS OF STYLISTIC FEATURES

Abstract

Purpose. The article focuses on the multifaceted functions of headlines in news media. Headlines not only provide information but also play a crucial role in capturing readers' attention and influencing their interpretation of news stories. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which media shape public opinion and construct narratives by examining the stylistic features employed in headlines. Methods. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between language, style, and meaning in news headlines, the researchers adopt a multi-dimensional research approach. This includes using corpus linguistics, pragmatic analysis, discourse analysis, and stylistic analysis. The study focuses on a sample of prominent daily newspapers: The Guardian (British edition), The Washington Post, The Economist, and The Wall Street Journal. Results. The analysis of the sample headlines reveals a wide range of stylistic devices utilized in news media. Stylistic features such as allusions, antithesis, irony, metaphors, personification, and rhetorical questions are commonly employed to convey information concisely and create an engaging impact. The findings indicate that alliteration is the most frequently used stylistic device, serving to create catchy and memorable effects. Metaphors rank second, as they effectively convey complex ideas in a concise manner while creating vivid imagery. Rhetorical questions are the third most frequently used stylistic device that engages readers and encourages them to think about specific issues. Other notable devices include personification, quotation marks, irony, and antithesis. The research findings have significant implications for understanding the persuasive power of media headlines and their influence on public opinion. Conclusion. By employing a multidimensional research approach and analyzing a sample of prominent daily newspapers, the study reveals the prevalence of various stylistic devices in headline construction. Alliteration, metaphors, and rhetorical questions are among the most frequently employed devices.