LINGUOPRAGMATIC FEATURES OF FAKE NEWS IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK ONLINE MEDIA
Abstract
Fake news as an emerging trend of online communication persists to change the dynamics of sociopolitical discourse and public opinion. This article explores the linguopragmatic features of fake news in English and Uzbek language online media, highlighting how language is employed strategically with a view to influence perceptions. Drawing on the tools of critical discourse analysis and speech act theory, the research points out certain linguistic markers-sensationalist headlines, emotive appeals, vague sourcing, and analyzes how they are deployed to persuade or deceive. Through a comparison of data from English and Uzbek contexts, the discussion reveals global trends along with culturally rooted nuances, such as the invocation of national heroes or code-switching for added credibility. Utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, discourse analysis, content analysis, and online news users' survey-the paper gives an account of how the fabric of fake news is made, disseminated, and received. Lastly, the results call for increased media literacy, sound fact-checking protocols, and vigilant regulatory schemes tuned to linguistic and cultural specificities. The recommended proposals aim at fostering a knowledgeable public and protecting the integrity of virtual information spaces.
Keywords
fake news, linguopragmatics, critical discourse analysis, speech act theory, media literacy, disinformation, cultural specificity, Uzbek and English online media
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