Gendered Language Features on Instagram Comments

Abstract

This study analyses language features used by men and women in Instagram comments, applying theories proposed by Coates (2013) and Lakoff (1975). Data were collected from selected comments on the official Instagram accounts of Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish, Tom Holland and Sam Smith. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Comments were selected based on linguistic features associated with men's and women's language. The findings reveal that several gendered language features persist in digital communication. Language features identified in comments posted by men include direct and assertive speech, minimal responses, use of jargon and expertise display, and humour or teasing. Meanwhile, features of women’s language include rising intonation on declaratives, empty adjectives, intensifiers, hypercorrect grammar, super-polite forms, avoidance of strong swear words and emphatic stress. Instagram comment sections reveal gendered communication, though some expressions have moved to a more gender-neutral form in online interaction.