An Illocutionary Act in World Health Organization Instagram Caption

Abstract

This research examines the functions of illocutionary acts in the World Health Organization's (WHO) Instagram captions about COVID-19. Using a descriptive qualitative method, the study analyzes the captions to understand their purpose. Instagram is a popular platform where people share ideas and moments. Pragmatics, which looks at language meaning in context, is important for understanding the illocutionary acts in Instagram captions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Instagram has been used to discuss and raise awareness about the virus. Users share slogans, updates on cases, live broadcasts from hospitals, and captions addressing pandemic issues. The research identifies illocutionary acts in WHO's Instagram captions, such as providing information, issuing warnings, giving advice, expressing solidarity, and promoting health protocols. These acts effectively convey messages and influence behavior. The study contributes to linguistics by providing insights into illocutionary acts in Instagram captions. It also helps writers and readers interpret captions better. Teachers can use the findings to teach pragmatic language use. In conclusion, the research enhances understanding of illocutionary acts in WHO's COVID-19 Instagram captions. It emphasizes the importance of context in interpreting captions and benefits linguistic research, writers, readers, and teachers. Keywords: Caption, Illocutionary, Instagram, WHO