HEDGES USED IN THE SPEECH OF AMERICAN PRESIDENT, JOE BIDEN, AT VALLEY FORGE AHEAD ON JANUARY 6, 2024

Abstract

Abstract. This study examines the utilization of linguistic devices known as hedges in Joe Biden's speech delivered on January 6, 2024. It describes and classifies hedges employed by Joe Biden in his speech and to determine the most commonly occurring categories of hedges in the speech. Descriptive qualitative method was used in this study, drawing upon Salager-Meyer's (1997) theory as a study framework. The data were taken from Joe Biden’s Speech at Valley Forge ahead on January 6, 2024. Then the data were analyzed using the following steps: (1) Transcribing the speech from YouTube, (2) verifying the accuracy of the transcript, (3) identifying the hedges used in the speech, (4) classifying the hedges, (5) interpreting the data and drawing conclusions based on the data obtained. The results show that there are 125 hedges used in the speech and the dominant type of hedges used is modal auxiliary verbs. This indicates that in giving his speech Joe Biden employs strategic measures to mitigate any risks to his facial region. Keywords: hedges, language, speech, modal auxiliary verbs.