Perceiving the Semiotic Encounters’ Role in Shaping Pragmatic Norms and Aesthetic Expressions in Informal English Discourse

Abstract

This study revolves on the role of semiotic encounters in shaping pragmatic norms and aesthetic expressions in informal English discourse. This delves on the perceptions and experiences of the third-year students under Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies on the points of this research focal on ascertaining the semiotic encounters that impact the meaning making, relationships, and creative use of the English language of these considered interlocutors; and on how it takes place in the informal English discourse. This is in accordance with the existing explorations which rationalize that there is an interplay of semiotics, pragmatics, aesthetics and a specific discourse in linguistics but excludes the importance of language adjustments to variety of communication skills of English learners. This gap foregrounds the specific phenomenological inquisitions of this paper. Pertinently, the employed methods for gathering data are purposive and criterion sampling techniques, and in-depth interview. Thematic analysis is established for the treatment of the acquired data. The findings and conclusions show that pragmatic norms and aesthetic expressions are shaped by the semiotic encounters relevant for creating, maintaining, and strengthening relationships; for addressing communication needs of a circumstance; and for showing the areas of development of English for diverse generations with its own linguistic preferences and repertoires. The informal English discourse is implied as inclusive and effective training ground for the general language learners and enthusiasts.