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Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, 2025, 8(1); doi: 10.25236/AJHSS.2025.080125.

Analysis of the Application of Speech Act Theory in English Advertising

Author(s)

Xinyu Tang1, Ge Zhu2

Corresponding Author:
​Xinyu Tang
Affiliation(s)

1School of International Business Communications, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian City, Liaoning Province, China

2Department of Commerce of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China

Abstract

This study focuses on the application of the Speech Act Theory in English advertisements. Firstly, it elaborates on the basic concepts of the Speech Act Theory, including locutionary acts, illocutionary acts and perlocutionary acts. Then it conducts an in-depth analysis of the specific application forms of this theory in English advertisements. For example, direct speech acts are used to directly convey product information and appeals, while indirect speech acts are employed to trigger consumers’ thinking and emotional resonance in an implicit way and influence their purchasing intentions. Different types of speech acts are utilized to fulfill functions such as persuasion, providing information and arousing emotions in advertisements. Through case analysis, it demonstrates how English advertisements skillfully apply the Speech Act Theory to enhance the communication effects and marketing achievements. The research shows that the Speech Act Theory plays a very important role in English advertisements, providing effective strategies and ideas for advertisement creators. Meanwhile, it also helps consumers better understand the intentions of advertisements, and has positive promoting significance and reference value for both theoretical research and practical application in the field of English advertisements.

Keywords

Speech Act Theory, English advertisements, Locutionary acts, Illocutionary acts, Perlocutionary acts

Cite This Paper

Xinyu Tang, Ge Zhu. Analysis of the Application of Speech Act Theory in English Advertising. Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences (2025) Vol. 8, Issue 1: 160-165. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJHSS.2025.080125.

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