INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Language is the primary communicative tool that fulfills all human needs, making it indispensable in human interaction Its enduring presence alongside humans highlights its significance in effective communication In the realm of politics, language plays an essential role, emphasizing the strong connection between linguistic expression and political processes This close relationship has attracted the interest of numerous researchers, as highlighted by Joseph (2006), who underscores the importance of language in shaping political discourse and influence.
Language plays a crucial role in politics, with persuasive speech being central to political communication Rhetorical devices are widely used to make political speeches more engaging, lively, and effective in persuading audiences According to Harris (2017), there are over sixty rhetorical devices, including understatement and hyperbole, which use distortion to emphasize a point and cannot be interpreted literally Due to their powerful impact, many politicians frequently employ these devices to capture listeners’ attention and achieve their communicative goals.
In discourse analysis, linguistic features of political speeches have been extensively studied, with particular focus on rhetorical devices such as alliteration, metaphor, metonymy, rhetorical questions, repetition, and personification (Ollikka, 2018; Charteris-Black, 2016; Amaral et al., 2013; Pham Thi Minh Phuong, 2017; Nguyen Uy Dung, 2010) However, there is a noticeable gap in research regarding the use of understatements and hyperboles in political speeches Nguyen Uy Dung (2010) examined stylistic devices in U.S presidential speeches and proposed comparing these devices with those used in Vietnamese political speeches Additionally, integrating rhetorical devices into teaching can enhance lesson effectiveness and engagement, motivating the study titled “A study on understatements and hyperboles in Vietnamese and English political speeches” for my MA thesis.
Aim and Objectives
This study aims to examine the structural and functional features of understatements and hyperboles in Vietnamese and English political speeches
To achieve this aim, the researcher tries to fulfill the following objectives:
- To identify and discuss the structural and functional features of understatements and hyperboles in English and Vietnamese political speeches
- To compare and contrast the structural and functional features of understatements and hyperboles in English political speeches and Vietnamese political speeches.
Research Questions
To achieve the above aim and objectives, the researcher answers the following questions:
1 What are the structural and functional features of the understatements and the hyperboles used in the investigated English and Vietnamese political speeches?
2 What are the similarities and differences in the structural and functional features of the understatements and the hyperboles between English political speeches and Vietnamese political speeches? luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Scope of the Study
This study examines the structural and functional features of understatements and hyperboles in Vietnamese and English political speeches, focusing solely on these rhetorical devices due to their persuasive power The research compares and contrasts how understatements and hyperboles are employed in the two languages, analyzing 40 speeches from Vietnamese politicians sourced from their official websites and 40 speeches from English politicians obtained from ukpol.co.uk, ensuring authenticity By analyzing speeches from the past six years, the study aims to uncover insights into the strategic use of these devices in political communication across linguistic contexts.
Harris’s theory (2017) of Rhetorical devices is used as a main theoretical framework in identifying and discussing hyperboles and understatements in political speeches.
Significance of the Study
This study analyzes understatements and hyperboles in English and Vietnamese political speeches to identify the rhetorical devices politicians use to enhance persuasiveness By examining these language features, it aims to deepen understanding of how power and ideology are conveyed through political discourse Ultimately, the research highlights the importance of language awareness in shaping political influence and communication strategies.
This study aims to contribute significantly to the field of literacy analysis by examining rhetorical devices such as understatements and hyperboles It provides both theoretical insights and practical applications, helping language learners develop a solid understanding of these devices Additionally, the research is valuable for readers interested in crafting political speeches and studying rhetorical strategies Overall, this thesis enhances knowledge of rhetorical devices, supporting effective communication and advanced literacy skills.
While some research has explored rhetorical devices in political speeches and their analysis through Functional Grammar, there is limited investigation into the use of understatements and hyperboles in both English and Vietnamese political discourse Understanding the relationship between understatement and hyperbole enhances readers' and language users' ability to interpret and communicate the intended meanings effectively.
Definition of terminology
Understatement: Harris (2017) defined understatement as a device which expresses an idea as less important than it actually is, either for ironic emphasis or for politeness and tact
Hyperbole: Harris (2017) defined hyperbole as follow “Hyperbole, the counterpart of understatement, deliberately exaggerates conditions for emphasis or effect”
Rhetorical devices, also known as figures of speech, are techniques that involve using words in unique and creative ways to enhance communication According to Harris (2017), these devices incorporate unusual arrangements or meanings, making language more engaging and expressive Understanding rhetorical devices is essential for effective writing and speaking, as they help convey messages with greater impact and clarity.
Political speech is primarily an argument aimed at persuading others by providing reasons to think, feel, or act in specific ways It seeks to motivate audiences, inspire trust during uncertain times, and shape their perception of situations Effective political speeches also adapt to their audiences by confirming expectations and respecting boundaries, while simultaneously aiming to transform their viewpoints (Jamieson, 1988).
Intended structure of the thesis
The research is structured into five coherent chapters beginning with the introduction, which outlines the study's rationale, aims, objectives, research questions, scope, significance, and organization Chapter two reviews relevant existing studies and establishes the theoretical foundation by discussing key concepts and background related to the topic The third chapter explains the research methodology, detailing data collection and analysis methods used to address the research questions Chapter four presents the findings, including illustrations, interpretations, and discussions based on the theoretical frameworks introduced earlier Finally, chapter five summarizes the main results, draws conclusions, discusses pedagogical implications, acknowledges limitations, and offers recommendations for future research.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Literature review
Advances in any field of study rely heavily on the achievements of previous scholars, and this principle is especially crucial in the complex and nuanced field of rhetorical devices in political speeches Understanding the evolution of rhetorical strategies enhances our ability to analyze and interpret political rhetoric effectively Building upon past research allows for deeper insights into how political speakers persuade and influence their audiences.
Charteris-Black (2005) emphasizes that successful political speakers must appeal to listeners' pre-existing attitudes and emotions, fostering a sense of understanding and support for their beliefs Effective political speeches create emotional connections and present morally resonant standpoints to persuade audiences Relevance of arguments to the issue is crucial, and while linguistic performance plays a vital role, the combination of various rhetorical strategies enhances the overall impact Charteris-Black highlights that examining the interaction of multiple rhetorical techniques provides deeper insight into their effectiveness in political communication.
Pham Thi Minh Phuong (2017) conducted a study analyzing the use of rhetorical devices in Hillary Clinton's speeches from 2010 to 2016, focusing on metonymy, repetition, irony, metaphor, and parallelism The research aimed to examine Clinton’s rhetorical strategies through the lens of Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) Using a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative analysis, the study provided an in-depth insight into how these devices enhance Clinton’s persuasive communication.
The use of rhetorical devices in political speeches enhances their impact, making them more inspiring and memorable rather than dry or monotonous A study confirmed that situational context significantly influences how rhetorical devices are employed in political speeches, highlighting their importance in effective communication Comparing speeches across different cultural or political contexts could further enrich understanding; for instance, analyzing Vietnamese politicians’ speeches alongside those of other leaders might reveal interesting differences Notably, corpus-based analyses of speeches by leaders such as Obama and Rouhani at the UN demonstrate the critical role of rhetorical strategies in high-stakes political discourse Incorporating these insights can improve the effectiveness and appeal of political communication strategies.
This study analyzes the transitivity system and modality in political speeches using Halliday's systematic functional linguistics to explore how two presidents' language reflects both ideology and power The results indicate that Obama's language is simpler and more understandable compared to Rouhani’s Additionally, both presidents' speeches predominantly utilize material processes, which emphasize actions and events, effectively highlighting their past achievements and future plans to convey leadership and governmental functions.
Nguyen Thi Thuy (2020) conducted a study analyzing British and American political speeches through the lens of Systemic Functional Linguistics She examined 40 speeches delivered by American Presidents between 1982 and 2009, as well as speeches by British Prime Ministers, to explore how language functions to shape political messages This research highlights the linguistic strategies used by leaders to influence audiences and convey political ideologies Her work provides valuable insights into the intersection of language and politics in both the UK and the USA.
From 1982 to 2011, research analyzed the use of metaphor, simile, hyperbole, and their roles in conveying political messages in British and American speeches, employing Harris (2013) as an analytical framework The study combined both quantitative and qualitative methods to compare the similarities and differences in employing these rhetorical devices across the two contexts The findings revealed no significant difference in the overall use of rhetorical devices for message delivery and persuasive impact between British and American politicians, although differences were observed in the frequency of their occurrences.
This article focuses on analyzing specific rhetorical devices used across various contexts, including print advertising, promotional discourse, classroom films, and political speeches Rhetorical devices have been extensively studied in multiple fields, highlighting their significance in effective communication The predominant research method employed is quantitative analysis, often complemented by qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of their usage.
Research by (2018) analyzed the use of rhetorical devices in Conor McGregor’s speeches, focusing on apostrophe, exemplum, repetition, and metaphors through Harris’s theory, based on 11 press conferences from 2015 to 2017 The study revealed that McGregor employed these devices to attack opponents’ characters, evoke emotions, and elevate his own status Similarly, Farrokhi & Nazemi (2015) examined rhetorical devices in two major newspapers—the New York Times and The Australian—and found metonymy to be the most frequently used device, allowing writers to represent entities with geographical locations like Washington or Moscow when referencing governments Hyperbole was the second most common device, used to amplify claims and emphasize importance, while metaphor was least used, mainly to express personal opinions rather than factual news These studies highlight how rhetorical devices serve specific strategic purposes in speech and written media.
Research by Aljadaan (2018) explores hyperbole's relationship to metaphor and irony, highlighting both similarities and differences, and establishing that hyperbole shares characteristics with both devices while remaining distinct Henkemans (2013) examines hyperbole’s strategic role in argumentation, demonstrating that it can be used to emphasize key information, strengthen arguments through exaggeration, and effectively achieve the arguer’s goals during discussions.
Alattar's (2017) study examined both formal and functional aspects of hyperbole used by American candidates in electoral campaign speeches Analyzing three randomly selected speeches from the winning 2012 Presidential candidate, the research found that hyperbole predominantly manifests through exaggerated single words The functional analysis indicated that emphasis and evaluation were the most prominent functions, highlighting that the candidate aimed to influence voters primarily through these combined rhetorical devices.
Voltadewi (2014) examined the use of hyperbolic expressions in online perfume advertisements, revealing that these ads often utilize hyperbole to enhance visual appeal and captivate consumers The study, based on theories by Claridge (2011), Harris (2013), and Wales (2001), found that the most common hyperbolic form in these advertisements is the use of single words The primary goal of employing hyperbolic language is to make advertisements more attractive, thereby increasing customer interest and boosting sales.
Research by Majed and Muhammad (2017) analyzed the relationship between overstatement and understatement in English Literary Letters, revealing that both forms do not reflect reality but serve to express writers’ ideas, feelings, and emotional states influenced by their timing and mood Colston (1997) conducted experiments demonstrating that irony effectively indicates surprise when expectations are clear and outcomes are unexpected, whereas overstatement is more impactful in negative situations where expectations are not explicit.
Du Thi Trang Anh (2010) analyzed 600 newspaper understatements from both English and Vietnamese sources, including “The New York Times,” “The Los Angeles Times,” “Quân Đội Nhân Dân,” and “The Nhân Dân,” to explore their syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic features in editorials The study found that understatements can be expressed using all parts of speech and occur across various structural levels, including noun, verb, adjective, and adverb phrases Vietnamese understatements are classified into eight categories: expressions of poverty, gloomy state, conflict, difficulties, hostility, incapableness or weakness, homelessness, and danger In contrast, English editorials' understatements fall into six groups: expressions of poverty, gloomy state, conflict, insaneness, incapableness or weakness, and danger, highlighting both linguistic diversity and cultural differences in understatement usage.
While numerous studies have explored rhetorical devices across various discourse contexts and analyzed political speeches for linguistic features, there has been no comprehensive research focused specifically on rhetorical devices in Vietnamese and English political speeches Notably, devices such as understatement and hyperbole have rarely been examined together in prior studies This research aims to be the first to analyze these two rhetorical devices simultaneously within political speeches, utilizing a classification framework by Luan Van Tot Nghiep.
Theoretical background
Charteris-Black (2016) defines political speech as a coherent stream of spoken language, often pre-prepared, delivered to an audience with specific purposes on political occasions He identifies two main categories of political speech: one related to political decision-making and the other to sharing values Obeng (1977) describes political discourse as inherently conflict-driven, involving contestation, praise, criticism, and moments of support, highlighting its dynamic nature Politicians frequently employ rhetorical devices in their speeches to garner audience support and influence beliefs.
In politics, language serves both as a tool of power and as a target for influence, either to be reinforced or dismantled, as highlighted by Knappert (1968) Rozina (2009) emphasizes that political discourse varies significantly based on its objectives Politicians strategically use specific language forms when responding to journalists, aiming to persuade voters, foster party loyalty, mobilize floating voters, and shape public attitudes to garner support for policies.
A study by Kenzhekanova (2015) identified four key features of political discourse: agonistic ability, aggressiveness, ideological character, and theatricality Agonistic ability refers to competitiveness, often evident in parliamentary debates and pre-election campaigns Aggressiveness is a crucial component of political speech, used to demonstrate political strength and diminish the opposition's credibility The ideological character reflects the system of social representations, group beliefs, and opinions rooted in shared values and norms, often linked to military perspectives Lastly, theatricality in politics pertains to the imagery and persona projected by politicians, shaping public perception and engagement.
Rhetorical analysis, as defined by Willihnganz (2008), involves examining how a text persuades its audience of a particular point of view The primary focus is on identifying the communication strategies and techniques employed to influence the audience effectively Instead of simply stating what the text says, rhetorical analysis emphasizes understanding the methods used to persuade and communicate convincingly.
Short (2007) outlined a clear process for conducting rhetorical analysis, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly familiarizing oneself with the material She advised forming a strong thesis statement and organizing all identified rhetorical strategies effectively Additionally, she highlighted the need to analyze these strategies in depth rather than merely summarizing, while also ensuring the text maintains proper grammar and fluidity This approach ensures a comprehensive and well-structured rhetorical analysis.
The strategies of persuasion mentioned by both Willihnganz (2008) and Short
Rhetorical devices are commonly associated with various persuasive and communicative techniques, emphasizing the importance of effective language use According to Oxford’s online dictionary, rhetoric is defined as either “speech or writing that is intended to influence people, but that is not completely honest or sincere” or “the art of using language in speech or writing in a special way that influences or entertains people,” highlighting its core focus on persuasion and impactful communication Understanding rhetoric is essential to grasping the concept of rhetorical devices, which serve as tools to enhance influence and engagement The term “device” in “rhetorical device” is fairly self-explanatory, referring to a mode or type of communication rather than a specific object Therefore, rhetorical devices can be broadly described as different modes of persuasion and effective communication used to influence audiences.
Harris (2013) emphasizes that mastering rhetorical devices through practice and experimentation enhances self-expression by making communication clearer and more impactful These devices serve multiple purposes, including capturing attention, clarifying points, increasing credibility, and ensuring memorability Furthermore, Harris (2017) defines rhetorical devices as figures of speech that involve using words in unique and unconventional ways, either through distinctive arrangements or unusual meanings, to strengthen communication.
The articles "A Handbook of Rhetorical Devices" and "Writing with Clarity and Style" compile a comprehensive list of 60 rhetorical devices, each accompanied by clear definitions and illustrative examples These resources assist writers in accurately identifying and categorizing various rhetorical devices to enhance their writing style By providing detailed descriptions, they help improve clarity and effectiveness in communication, making them valuable tools for anyone aiming to master rhetorical techniques.
This study focuses on a select group of rhetorical devices, specifically chosen for their persuasive power and the author's personal interest The primary devices examined are understatement and hyperbole, both of which significantly enhance the effectiveness of persuasive communication By analyzing these devices, the research highlights their importance in shaping compelling and impactful messages.
Understatement is a rhetorical device that involves expressing an idea as less important than it actually is, often to convey meaning more powerfully Harris (2013) explains that understatement serves to diminish the perceived significance of a statement, while Majed (2017) emphasizes that its main purpose is to say less and imply more This linguistic tool is used for various reasons, including concealing anxiety, signaling colloquialism, demonstrating modesty and tact, avoiding offense, and emphasizing a point For instance, the sentence “She gave birth to me, raised me and provided for me from an infant… maybe I owe her one” exemplifies understatement by downplaying the speaker’s gratitude while implying deep appreciation.
(2.1) the speaker is minimizing how indebted he is to his mother He probably owes her a lot more than “ one ”
According to Du Thị Trang Anh's (2010) thesis, speech functions include showing politeness, emphasizing the severity of a problem, avoiding hurting the hearer’s feelings or causing resentment, and subtly criticizing individuals, especially those with higher social rank Additionally, speakers utilize subtle sarcasm, metaphorical language, and strategies to make issues seem less serious To achieve these effects, people often use down-toners to diminish importance, negative words to affirm content indirectly, and modal verbs combined with bare infinitives or perfect infinitives to avoid direct statements or to respond evasively.
According to Osȩkowska-Sandecka (2016), understatements can be utilized both positively and negatively Politicians often use understatements positively to enhance politeness and promote political correctness, aiming to avoid offending others However, understatements can also be employed negatively to convey ideologically driven messages, shaping public perception in accordance with specific political agendas.
Rajaa’ M Flayih (2009) conducted a study on understatements in selected texts from the New Testament of the Holy Bible, focusing on books such as Mark, Luke, Acts of the Apostles, and Corinthians Her research analyzed both the syntactic and semantic aspects of these understatements, providing valuable insights into their stylistic and communicative functions within biblical literature.
He found out understatements in negation form were highlighted And communicative functions of understatements are to moderate or mitigate, to demphasize and to show egative emotion
The phrase “a little bit out of line” exemplifies understatement, as it minimizes the severity of inappropriate behavior For instance, in the statement “I suppose that getting into a fistfight with the principal was a little bit out of line,” the speaker downplays how serious the misconduct truly is This expression suggests that fighting with the principal is much more serious than simply being out of line, highlighting the use of understatement to convey a less harsh tone.
Another example is in the statement “It turns out that climbing Mount
Everest is not so easy” (2.3) The speaker is understating how difficult it is to climb the Earth’s highest mountain It is very hard to climb Mount Everest
Hyperbole is defined as an expression that is more extreme than justified given its referent, emphasizing its exaggerative nature (Aljadaan, 2018) Quintilian describes hyperbole as a "tasteful exaggeration of the truth" that can either amplify or diminish the size or importance of something, depending on the context (Henkemans, 2013) Harris further explains that hyperbole, the counterpart of understatement, deliberately exaggerates conditions to create emphasis or effect, making it a powerful rhetorical device (Harris, 2013).
Sumary
This chapter reviews existing research on rhetorical devices used in political speeches, with references to studies conducted in both English and Vietnamese It discusses key theoretical concepts such as political speeches, understatement, and hyperbole to provide a solid foundation for understanding rhetorical techniques The chapter concludes by introducing the theoretical framework that guides the analysis of these rhetorical devices in political communication.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research approach
This study aims to identify and analyze the structural and functional features of understatements and hyperboles in English and Vietnamese political speeches It compares how these rhetorical devices are used across both languages to reveal similarities and differences A quantitative approach was employed to collect numerical data and test hypotheses related to the forms and functions of hyperboles and understatements, which is essential for fulfilling the first research objective Conversely, a qualitative approach focused on interpreting language meaning, leading to the development of new theories rather than hypothesis testing, in accordance with Nicolas Walliman’s (2006) methodology.
This study combines a qualitative approach, ideal for analyzing the forms and functions of English and Vietnamese political speeches, with a quantitative approach for making relevant comparisons The qualitative method allows for a deeper understanding of language phenomena, while the quantitative approach facilitates systematic comparison Therefore, a mixed-methods design, with a focus on quantitative analysis, is adopted to achieve comprehensive insights into the linguistic features and functions of political speeches in both languages.
The study employed a quantitative approach to analyze the occurrence percentage of various devices in political speeches Initially, the researcher collected speeches from authorized sources, including download links for master's theses Then, the speeches were examined to identify data meeting the research criteria, focusing on statements with hyperboles and understatements These phrases were highlighted, categorized in Excel, and subsequently summarized in tables Finally, a pie chart was created for visual representation and further analysis of the data.
The quantitative approach alone is insufficient to fully understand the complex nature of the situations and address the research questions Therefore, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative analysis with quantitative data This qualitative method was applied during the later phases of the research, after all examples had been classified and analyzed based on predefined frameworks In-depth analysis and comparison between English and Vietnamese examples were conducted to ensure comprehensive insights into language differences and contextual nuances.
Data Collection and Analysis
This study analyzes the use of understatements and hyperboles in political speeches by comparing Vietnamese and UK politicians, chosen due to similarities in their political systems Speeches from Vietnamese and UK politicians serve as primary data sources, providing a basis for cross-cultural linguistic analysis The internet was utilized as a convenient method for data collection, aligning with Walliman (2006), who highlights the internet's role in rapidly expanding access to diverse information sources This approach ensures a comprehensive comparison of rhetorical devices employed in both political contexts.
The researcher analyzed 80 political speeches longer than five minutes, with 40 speeches in Vietnamese and 40 in English, which were transcribed from videos These transcripts were carefully examined and coded according to criteria outlined in Tables 3.2 and 3.3, with each speech assigned a unique code, date, and total word count Separate corpora were built from speeches produced between 2016 and 2021, one consisting of English political speeches and the other of Vietnamese, for comparative analysis The transcripts were proofread before identifying rhetorical devices such as understatements and hyperboles, based on Harris (2017) The analysis incorporated frameworks from Claridge (2011), Cano Mora (2006), and Du Thi Trang Anh (2010), with hyperbolic expressions categorized into three levels—single words, phrases, and clauses—considering elements like superlatives, comparison, and repetition The functions of hyperbole and understatements were analyzed according to the relevant theories, ensuring a systematic approach All identified instances of understatements and hyperboles were compiled into Microsoft Excel for frequency analysis, resulting in a list of extracted sentences that demonstrate the use of these rhetorical devices in political speeches.
Table 3.1: Framework for analyzing data
2 Emphasizing the enormity of a problem
3 Avoiding hurting the hearer’s feeling and making
Phrase N Phrase N luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
4 Criticizing someone subtly (especially the people with higher rank and position in the society)
5 Being a subtle form of sarcasm
Table 3.2 Data on the corpus of the English political speeches
No Speeches Politician Date range No of words
13 E13 Clive Lewis 16.03.2021 569 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
No Speeches Politician Date range No of words
40 E40 Peter Bottomley 12.04.2021 615 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Table 3.3 Data on the corpus of the Vietnamese political speeches (The VC)
No Speeches Politician Date range No of words
28 V28 Nguyen Xuan Phuc 23.04.2021 918 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
No Speeches Politician Date range No of words
Validity and reliability
This study utilizes speech data collected from active and authentic websites, ensuring high data quality and reliability These credible sources provide genuine examples, not invented, enhancing the validity of the research Additionally, since this data has been consistently posted over time, it reflects real-world language usage, making the findings relevant and trustworthy for analysis.
Although conducted in 2016, the study remains highly relevant today, utilizing the most appropriate methods to ensure validity and reliability The researcher based conclusions on a thorough analysis of evidence, including automated statistics and frequency analysis, confirming the study's accuracy Additionally, Harris's (2017) widely accepted framework for data analysis was employed, further supporting the credibility and robustness of the research findings.
Summary
This section offers an overview of the research methods used in the study, detailing the data collection and data analysis procedures to ensure transparency and validity Clarifying these methods helps readers understand the foundation of the study's findings and discussions For more in-depth insights and complete thesis downloads, contact luan van tot nghiep, email: luanvanfullmoi nhat z z@gmail.com.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Overview of Hyperboles and Understatements
Figure 4.1: Hyperboles and Understatements in Vietnamese Political Speeches
HYPERBOLES AND UNDERSTATEMENTS IN VIETNAMESE POLICAL SPEECHES
Vietnamese hyperboles Vietnamese understatements luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Figure 4.2: Hyperboles and Understatements in Vietnamese Political Speeches
Figure 4.3: Hyperboles and Understatements in English and Vietnamese Political
The Hyperboles group demonstrated significantly higher usage in Vietnamese political speeches compared to the Understatements group, as illustrated in Figure 4.1 Notably, this trend is consistent across English political speeches, indicating a parallel pattern in rhetorical device preferences between the two languages.
HYPERBOLES AND UNDERSTATEMENTS IN ENGLISH
OVERVIEW OF HYPERBOLES AND UNDERSTATEMENTS IN POLITICAL SPEECHES luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Vietnamese political speeches as seen in Figure 4.1 and 4.2 It is apparent from Figure 4.3 that politicians in English use more hyperboles and understatements in their talks than Vietnamese politicians.
Hyperboles in English and Vietnamese political speeches
Hyperbole is a rhetorical device used to exaggerate or overstate something to create a strong impression Recognizing hyperbolic language in speeches and texts is essential for accurate interpretation Essentially, any word or phrase can be considered hyperbole when it is intentionally overstated to emphasize a point or evoke emotion Understanding hyperbole enhances our ability to analyze and appreciate persuasive communication.
Hyperboles can be found in single words, phrases or clauses
4.2.1.1 Forms of hyperboles in English
Table 4.1: Forms of hyperboles in English
Forms of hyperboles in English %
Sum 3 0.7 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Analysis of English political speeches reveals that single-word hyperboles are the most common, constituting 55.2% of the total, indicating their popularity as a hyperbolic device Phrasal hyperboles follow closely, representing 44% of the instances, emphasizing their significant role in political rhetoric Conversely, clausal hyperboles are rare, accounting for only 0.7%, highlighting that shorter hyperbolic expressions are more prevalent This pattern suggests that shorter hyperboles, particularly individual words, are more effective due to their simplicity, making them easier to produce, process, and remember, as they have minimal internal structure (Claridge, 2011) These findings underline the productivity of concise hyperbolic forms in political discourse.
Our data shows an overwhelming presence of phrasal hyperboles, which often dominate formal language due to their multi-functionality and tendency to become conventionalized, as explained by Claridge Unlike other hyperbolic forms that tend to be longer and more complex, these phrases are more efficient and easier for speakers to use, contributing to their high frequency in communication In contrast, single words conveying hyperbole in English tend to be less common in formal contexts but remain an essential part of expressive language.
Most hyperbole occurrences are single-word forms, predominantly adjectives and adverbs, which emphasize exaggerated content within a sentence For instance, in Alok Sharma's speech at the Petersberg Climate Dialogue on May 6, 2021, he stated, “Today, I have the unique honour of being the only COP President-Designate to welcome ministers to the Petersberg Dialogue two years in a row” (4.1) The adjective “unique” in the phrase “the unique honour” highlights the extraordinary nature of his achievement, illustrating how omitting such hyperbolic words would diminish the emphasis and overall impact of the statement.
The Petersberg Dialogue has been held consecutively for two years, with a speaker expressing high appreciation for the opportunity to participate and urging action to maximize its benefits Hyperbolic language is often employed to emphasize the importance of taking decisive measures, as seen in speeches like Anne-Marie Trevelyan’s statement on using technology for long-term solutions, which underscores the significance of widespread technological access Similarly, she highlighted the vital role of the Royal Navy’s invisible work in safeguarding the economy, employing the adverb “profoundly” to intensify the impact Phrasal hyperboles, a common form of hyperbolic expressions, are prevalent in English, especially within noun and adjective phrases, with hyperboles appearing more frequently in these forms—17.4% and 15.2% respectively—compared to verb and adverb phrases For example, Boris Johnson’s speech on September 22, 2020, features the phrase “the single biggest crisis,” employing a superlative noun phrase to exaggerate the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic Nigel Huddleston’s comment on April 22, 2021, used the phrase “answer every single one of his questions,” reinforcing the hope of addressing numerous inquiries despite practical limitations Additionally, Johnson’s assertion that “this is a struggle that humanity will win” serves to reassure listeners about victory over the pandemic, despite the prevailing uncertainties, by employing an adjective phrase hyperbole to instill confidence in the future.
Our collective health and destiny are now more dependent on individual behavior than ever before, highlighting the unprecedented nature of current circumstances Clausal hyperbole, often used for emphasis, is created through the combined effect of multiple clauses; for example, Christine Jardine’s statement describing a project as “so important to all of us” seeks to involve and motivate the audience Similarly, Boris Johnson utilizes noun clausal hyperbole in his warning that “a mild cough can be someone else’s death knell,” emphasizing the serious danger posed by COVID-19 and urging caution These rhetorical devices effectively convey the gravity of the situation, engaging listeners and emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility during health crises.
4.2.1.2 Forms of hyperboles in Vietnamese
Table 4.2: Forms of hyperboles in Vietnamese
Forms of hyperboles in Vietnamese %
Hyperbole formation in Vietnamese closely resembles that in English, with single-word hyperboles being the most prevalent, accounting for 57.1% of cases with 193 instances Phrasal hyperboles follow, representing 42.6% with 144 instances, making it the second most common form In contrast, clausal hyperboles are rare, constituting only 0.3% of the total occurrences Overall, single-word hyperboles play a dominant role in expressive exaggeration within Vietnamese language use.
Vietnamese politicians predominantly use adjectives for hyperbole, with 31.4% of single-word hyperboles being adjectives, highlighting their tendency to emphasize through descriptive words Adverb hyperboles are the second most common, while noun and verb hyperboles are relatively rare, at only 4.1% and 3% For example, Mr Do Van Chien employed a single adjective hyperbole in his speech, saying “The State has been paid special attention,” where the adjective underscores the significance of the state's care Such adjectives are crucial in exaggerating and emphasizing key points to capture listeners' attention and evoke a stronger emotional response Including hyperbolic adverbs, as seen in other examples, further amplifies the intended emphasis, making politicians’ language more impactful.
The rapid and dramatic shift in societal perception of digital transformation underscores its accelerating development, as highlighted by Mr Nguyen Manh Hung’s statement that “the perception of society about digital transformation has changed dramatically,” emphasizing the pace of digital progress Vietnamese leaders frequently use hyperbolic language to convey national unity and collective effort; for example, Nguyen Phu Trong’s phrase “Today, in a joyful and exciting atmosphere, the whole country…” underscores national pride, even though not everyone may feel this way Additionally, his statement “The whole country is striving for ” exemplifies hyperbole to emphasize nationwide dedication In Vietnamese, hyperbolic expressions often utilize noun phrases, which are most commonly employed to amplify messages of collective effort and national significance.
Adverbial phrasal hyperboles are the least used in political speeches, accounting for only 3%, with adjective and verb phrasal hyperboles at 13.6% and 10.7% respectively For example, Le Minh Khai used a noun phrase hyperbole, "a talking number," to emphasize the effectiveness of the Statistics sector, highlighting the exaggerated nature of the number to praise performance Similarly, Nguyen Phu Trong employed adjective phrase hyperbole in describing rural development outcomes as "many remarkable results," to underscore their significance Verb phrase hyperbole appeared in Nguyen Phu Trong's statement that President Ho Chi Minh "fully appreciated the role of farmers," exaggerating the importance of farmers to stress their value Additionally, Pham Binh Minh used an adverb phrase hyperbole, describing the conference as held at “a very special and meaningful time,” to emphasize the significance of the event These hyperbolic expressions serve to reinforce key messages in political speeches by exaggerating certain aspects to capture attention and convey importance.
On January 28, 2021, Nguyen Manh Hung emphasized Vietnam's unique advantages by stating, "Vietnam has the conditions that many countries do not have," highlighting the country's exceptional potential in the context of clausal hyperbole.
This clause exaggerated the advantageous condition of Viet Nam and made the listeners feel more confident
4.2.1.3 Similarities and Differences in forms of hyperboles in English and Vietnamese political speeches
Table 4.3: Similarities and Differences in forms of hyperboles in English and
Forms of hyperboles in English Forms of hyperboles in Vietnamese
Adj 102 Adj 106 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Forms of hyperboles in English Forms of hyperboles in Vietnamese
Analysis reveals that both Vietnamese and English political speeches predominantly feature single-word hyperboles, especially adjectives and adverbs, highlighting a common preference for simplicity across languages Phrasal hyperboles are the second most common form in both languages, indicating their importance in political discourse Conversely, clausal hyperboles are rarely used in either language, suggesting that more complex hyperbole structures are less favored among politicians Overall, these findings suggest a clear association between hyperbole complexity and frequency, with simpler forms being more prevalent in political speeches.
Recent research reveals significant differences between English and Vietnamese political speeches in the use of hyperbolic forms In English speeches, phrasal hyperboles predominantly feature noun and adjective groups, indicating a higher frequency compared to verb and adverb groups Conversely, Vietnamese political speeches show a more balanced distribution across noun, adjective, verb, and adverb groups, with no significant dominance of any particular form These findings highlight distinct stylistic patterns in how hyperbolic language is employed across the two languages in political contexts.
Hyperbole is considered one of the most important and powerful rhetorical devices ever invented, offering a level of impact that surpasses other techniques by a billionfold (Harris, 2017) Mora (2006) highlights nine key functions of hyperbole, including emphasis, evaluation, expressing surprise, simplifying concepts, intensifying interest, contrasting differences, incorporating humor, clarifying ideas, and politely de-emphasizing These diverse functions demonstrate hyperbole's versatility and effectiveness in enhancing communication and engaging audiences.
4.2.2.1 Functions of hyperboles in English
Table 4.4: Functions of hyperboles in English
Functions of hyperboles in English
7 1.7% b Simplification 0 0.0% c Interest intensification 2 28.6% d Contrast of differences 2 28.6% e Humour 0 0.0% f Clarification 1 16.7% g Polite de-emphasis 0 0.0%
The emphasis group accounts for the majority of hyperbole functions in political speeches, with over 90% used to emphasize words intentionally, making it the most prevalent application According to Table 4.4, hyperboles serving an emphatic purpose significantly outnumber other groups, highlighting their role in strengthening speech impact Evaluation hyperboles constitute 8% with 32 occurrences, while interest intensification and contrast of differences each share 28.6%, representing 1.7% of all hyperboles Only one hyperbole was used for clarification and another for expressing surprise, together making up 16.7% The dominant function of hyperbole is emphasis, as speakers often leverage this rhetorical device to amplify their ideas by substituting stronger synonyms or exaggerating reality for greater force, exemplified by Hilary Benn’s hyperbole speech on April 12.
Understatements in English and Vietnamese political speeches
An understatement is a figure of speech used to intentionally downplay the significance of a situation To analyze its various forms, the writer examines understatement in the context of single words, phrases, and clauses, highlighting how this rhetorical device creates emphasis through contrast and comparison.
4.3.1.1 Forms of Understatements in English
Table 4.7: Forms of Understatements in English
Forms of Understatements in English %
In English political speeches, phrasal understatements are the most prevalent, constituting 61.96% of all understatement expressions, as shown in Table 4.7 Single-word understatements are the second most common, making up 31.52% of the total, roughly half the frequency of phrasal understatements Clausal understatements are the least frequent, representing only 6.52% of the data These patterns highlight the dominant use of phrasal understatement in political discourse, with single words also playing a significant role.
Adverbs in single word form dominate the use of understatements, with 21 occurrences accounting for 22.83% of all instances, making them the most common form Single adjectives follow, with 6.52% and only 6 cases, indicating a lower frequency Single nouns are the least used, present in just 2.17% of examples For instance, in text E26, Anne-Marie employs understatement in the statement, "However, sometimes, violence does happen," highlighting how the speaker downplays complex situations to soothe listeners Violence appears intermittently in her speeches, often understated to manage audience perception Another example from Anne-Marie Trevelyan's speech on January 1 demonstrates the strategic use of understatement to convey messages more tactfully.
2018 She said “His willingness to borrow “to invest”, as he calls it, means simply a new vast mountain of debt” (4.40) The Chancellor had a speech on finance and
Anne-Marie highlighted the importance of responsible financial management, emphasizing that accumulating debt can lead to numerous long-term problems She used the adverb "simply" to downplay the severity of debt, adding an ironic tone to her warning An example of using a single adjective to convey understatement is seen in Kwasi Kwarteng's speech: “Member for,” illustrating how concise language can subtly minimize the issue's gravity.
In the article, Edward Miliband exemplifies politeness through the use of the word "enough" to reassure others regarding a specific matter, subtly expressing his politeness He also understated his discomfort by downplaying his concerns about the perceived lack of support for workers' rights Similarly, Edward Leigh employed a single noun "a penny" to minimize the significance of delayed payments to constituents, highlighting disappointment and lack of transparency in the process An analysis of linguistic patterns reveals that verb phrase understatements are the most prevalent, accounting for 26.09%, significantly higher than noun, adjective, and adverb phrase understatements, which hover around 10.87% to 11.96% These understatements serve to subtly convey disappointment and critique without overt language, emphasizing the importance of understanding understatements in effective communication.
This article explores various types of understatement used in speech and writing to convey meaning subtly Anne-Marie Trevelyan’s 2018 speech exemplifies verb phrase understatement, where she modestly thanks the Chancellor for his support, downplaying her appreciation Jenny Jones’ 2021 statement highlights noun phrase understatement by describing minor offenses as “really minor things,” minimizing the severity of the crimes Boris Johnson’s 2020 speech demonstrates adjective phrase understatement by describing the virus as “no less fatal than in the spring,” using negative phrasing to lessen the impact of the statement Additionally, John Healey’s 2021 speech features adverb clause understatement, further illustrating how speakers use linguistic strategies to modulate the seriousness of their messages, aligning with effective communication and SEO practices.
In the article, the use of clauses conveying understatements in English is highlighted, with examples demonstrating how speakers soften their messages For instance, the statement, “Perhaps in another era, we would have been tempted to leave it there,” illustrates an understatement used to downplay the significance of time and show politeness A notable example is Christine Jardine’s comment on January 13, 2021: “To be fair, the Arcadia Group was perhaps already vulnerable before covid-19, and likewise Debenhams, but that is no consolation to the thousands of people who spend their time worrying about whether their jobs can be saved from the rubble of what were once some of the proudest names on our high streets.” This noun clause understatement reflects cautious communication aimed at politeness Similarly, an example from text E12 on April 13 further exemplifies how understatements function in political discourse to convey concern gently while maintaining a composed tone.
In 2021, she emphasized that "even if you accept that argument—which I do not—the proposal for a border tax is completely the wrong approach," demonstrating politeness through adverb clause understatement Another example of understatement is her statement regarding international human rights efforts: "Eventually, at the United Nations Human Rights," highlighting the nuanced approach often used in diplomatic discussions These examples illustrate how careful language enhances communication by conveying disagreement or caution subtly.
The Sri Lankan Government committed to a new mechanism through a council agreement, though it required significant compromises from those of us who believed it was insufficient and doubted the government's ability to deliver.
Ed Davey on 18 March 2021 in speech E17 Speaker used an adjective clause understatement to lessen their disagreement, and not to make listeners sulky and hurt
4.3.1.2 Forms of Understatements in Vietnamese
Table 4.8: Forms of Understatements in Vietnamese
Forms of Understatements in Vietnamese %
Based on Table 4.8, phrasal understatements are the most prevalent, accounting for 71% of all cases Single-word understatements follow, representing 27.5% with 69 instances In contrast, clausal understatements are quite rare, making up only 1.4% of the total This highlights that phrasal expressions are the dominant form of understatements in Vietnamese, with single words also playing a significant role.
Vietnamese politicians tend to frequently use adverbs and adjectives to emphasize their messages, with adverbs slightly more common at 10.1% compared to 8.7% for adjectives The data shows that single noun and verb forms are used equally, each representing 4.3% of the analyzed language An example of adverb usage is Do Van Chien’s statement encouraging ethnic minority students and youth to excel in education, work, and social activities, highlighting the strategic use of adverbs to reinforce motivational messaging in political discourse.
In December 2020, he demonstrated politeness by using "kịp thời" (promptly) instead of "đúng lúc" (at the right time), highlighting the importance of timely actions Encouragement was given whenever individuals achieved excellent performance, though in this instance, the speaker understated the urgency of providing support Additionally, in text V07 by Nguyen Lan Hieu on November 31, 2020, he used a negative synonym of "difficult," which poorly conveys the true nature of challenges, emphasizing the need for precise language to accurately reflect situations.
Changing perspectives is a significant challenge, as reflected in the statement, "This is difficult because change in the text we have done but change in thinking is not easy," highlighting the complexity of shifting mindsets However, it also implies the potential for transformation in thinking For example, Nguyen Manh Hung suggested that localities and ministries could allocate 1% of their annual budgets to develop e-Government, noting that this figure aligns with the global average, which subtly minimizes perceived expense and encourages acceptance Similarly, Nguyen Lan Hieu’s speech emphasized that despite advocating for afforestation, large projects still proceed, with the verb “exhort” downplaying the inaction in forest conservation efforts These examples illustrate how language, through understatements and nuanced phrasing, can influence perceptions of challenges and solutions in governance and environmental initiatives.
Vietnamese politicians predominantly use verb phrases to express understatement, with this type accounting for 37.7% of phrasal understatements, particularly in hyperbolic expressions Adjective phrases serve as the second most common form of understatement, while phrasal adverbs rank third at 13% Noun-based phrasal understatements are the least frequent, constituting only 4.4% An example of verb phrase understatement is Pham Binh Minh’s statement “Kinh tế từng bước phục hồi” ("The economy gradually recovers"), which indicates careful communication about economic recovery Similarly, Nguyen Phu Trong’s remark on December 10, 2020, “Công tác khen thưởng có lúc, có việc chưa kịp thời” ("Rewarding activity is sometimes not timely in some cases") demonstrates the use of understatement to convey cautiousness.
In the speech, the speaker used the adverb phrase "understatement politely" to subtly downplay the government's shortcomings, garnering sympathy from listeners A notable example of noun phrase understatement is Nguyen Manh Hung's statement, "Và đây cũng là cơ hội hiếm có để ngành TT&TT định vị lại mình," which translates to "And this is also a rare opportunity for the information and communication industry to reposition itself." This strategic use of understatement effectively emphasizes the industry's potential for growth despite challenges.
Discussion
The study reveals that English politicians use more hyperboles and understatements in speeches compared to Vietnamese politicians, influenced by cultural and social factors Western, particularly English, communication styles are more extroverted and expressive, favoring the use of rhetorical devices like hyperboles and understatements to enhance effectiveness and credibility Additionally, social hierarchy plays a role, with language serving as a tool for influence and status, leading English politicians to employ these devices more frequently to persuade and command authority in a developed society.
This study found that hyperboles are used significantly more often than understatements, as speakers tend to use exaggerated expressions to capture listeners' attention and leave a lasting impression Generally, hyperboles are employed to create a positive or impactful effect, while understatements are typically reserved for negative or less favorable situations, which are less commonly preferred by audiences.
In political speeches, understatements and hyperboles typically manifest as single words or phrases rather than complete clauses, reflecting the complexity of grammatical patterns involved This observation aligns with Cladrige's 2011 research, which confirms that these rhetorical devices are more commonly expressed through concise language rather than complex sentence structures.
Summary
This chapter concludes with a comprehensive presentation and discussion of the study's findings, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods The results are displayed through tables and charts, complemented by descriptive analysis to offer deeper insights The research focused on examining hyperboles and understatements, exploring their forms and functions, and comparing their similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese.