Figurative Use of English Language in the Headlines of Pakistani Newspapers: A Case Study of Daily Times

Abstract

This study analyzes the figurative language used in the front page headlines of Daily Times newspaper from January 1st to January 20th, 2023, using Perrine’s theory of figures of speech. A descriptive research design was employed to analyze the types of figures of speech, their connotations, linguistic functions, and editorial advantages. Metaphors were most frequent, making up 30% of cases, followed by paradox, synecdoche, hyperbole, metonymy, and personification. The primary function was emotional intensity, accounting for 55% of the total. The results give an insight into how journalists use language to grab reader attention and simplify complex ideas. Researcher suggests broadening the study to include a wider range of national English-language newspapers for a comparative analysis. Analysis of reader engagement through surveys or experimental studies could provide valuable insights. Broadening the scope to digital news platforms and social media could reveal differences in language use between online and traditional media.