A LINGUISTIC STUDY OF US PRESIDENTS’ AND VIETNAMESE PRESIDENTS’ MESSAGES FOR NEW YEAR’S DAY

Abstract

Based on the theories of linguistics, this study makes an investigation into US presidents’ and Vietnamese presidents’ messages for New Year’s day in terms of lexical, syntactic and pragmatic features. With regard to lexical features, top priority will be given to pointing out terms, words denoting time, wishes and encouragement, lexical collocation and repetition as well. As for syntactic features, basic types of sentences are identified in the messages. In addition, parallel structures are also explored. Regarding pragmatic features, five types of illocutionary acts used in the messages are also carefully examined. They are declarations, representatives, expressives, directives, and commissives. Furthermore, special attention will be paid to clarifying solidarity strategies and the influences of political, socio-cultural and religious aspects on New Year messages. The finding of the study will help to identify the similarities and differences between New Year messages delivered by US and Vietnamese presidents. This study is expected to help Vietnamese learners of English to improve their writing skills, especially writing messages for New Year’s Day.