An Analysis of Hedging in The Diplomat Series Season 1

Anis Kurliwa Daika, Dr. Ni Gusti Ayu Roselani, M.A.

2025 | Skripsi | SASTRA INGGRIS

ABSTRACT

This study aims to identify the types of hedges and interpret the functions of hedging used by Kate Wyler in The Diplomat season 1. A descriptive qualitative approach was adopted, utilizing Salager-Meyer's (1997) taxonomy of hedges and Coates's (2013) classification of hedging functions. For the method of data collection, the data were collected from Kate Wyler’s utterances that contained hedges, which were then analyzed to uncover the forms and pragmatic functions of hedging. The findings reveal that six out of seven types of hedges were identified in Kate Wyler’s utterances, accounting for 139 of the total data. While the most frequently used types of hedges in Kate Wyler’s dialogue are modal auxiliaries, accounting for 37.41%. Meanwhile, the most frequently used hedging device subcategory is the modal auxiliary “would”, accounting for 25%. The findings on hedging devices facilitate the researcher in determining the pragmatic function of hedges. In this study, the functions of hedges can be presented as: 1) to show uncertainty and reduce commitment to the statement, 2) to soften the statements, maintain politeness, and protect face, 3) to search for the right words, and 4) to avoid sounding like an expert. These findings suggest that hedging plays a significant role in constructing diplomatic communication that is both negotiative and persuasive.

Keywords: types of hedges, pragmatic function, The Diplomat, TV series

ABSTRACT

This study aims to identify the types of hedges and interpret the functions of hedging used by Kate Wyler in The Diplomat season 1. A descriptive qualitative approach was adopted, utilizing Salager-Meyer's (1997) taxonomy of hedges and Coates's (2013) classification of hedging functions. For the method of data collection, the data were collected from Kate Wyler’s utterances that contained hedges, which were then analyzed to uncover the forms and pragmatic functions of hedging. The findings reveal that six out of seven types of hedges were identified in Kate Wyler’s utterances, accounting for 139 of the total data. While the most frequently used types of hedges in Kate Wyler’s dialogue are modal auxiliaries, accounting for 37.41%. Meanwhile, the most frequently used hedging device subcategory is the modal auxiliary “would”, accounting for 25%. The findings on hedging devices facilitate the researcher in determining the pragmatic function of hedges. In this study, the functions of hedges can be presented as: 1) to show uncertainty and reduce commitment to the statement, 2) to soften the statements, maintain politeness, and protect face, 3) to search for the right words, and 4) to avoid sounding like an expert. These findings suggest that hedging plays a significant role in constructing diplomatic communication that is both negotiative and persuasive.

Keywords: types of hedges, pragmatic function, The Diplomat, TV series

Kata Kunci : types of hedges, pragmatic function, The Diplomat, TV series