Analysis of linguistic techniques contributing to fear-mongering about COVID-19 (Omicron strain) from selected English news feeds

• Saleem A.
• Umbreen Tariq

Abstract

The pandemic spread of COVID-19 (Omicron strain) has affected people around the world and all fields of life. Research related to the spread of COVID-19 has attracted much attention, but the presented study focuses on the linguistic analysis of English news, which seems to be understudied.

The aim of the study is to analyze the rhetorical devices, such as hyperbole and metaphor, used in English newspapers in reporting the course of the COVID-19 (Omicron strain) epidemic as strong means of emotional impact that contribute to the spread of panic and fear. The use of intensifier words and concept vagueness in English news, which also contribute to the readers’ sense of fear, is evaluated.

Material and methods. Data is selected from 10 articles of 4 English newspapers: The Guardian, New York Times, China Daily and Dawn, published in 2020 and 2021. The findings were interpreted through theoretical analysis by codifying the emerging discursive themes.

Results. It is shown that the choice of words and discursive practices in published newspaper articles, shaped the language of fear, which ultimately caused panic among readers and in the society.

Conclusion. The discourse used in newspaper articles played a significant role in shaping public perception of the spread of COVID-19 (Omicron strain) by inducing fear of a pandemic. It is concluded that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the large amount of discourse devoted to the issue in English newspapers created a panic situation in the public.

Keywords:COVID-19; Omicron; mental illness; discourse of fear; discursive practices

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