On the Language Strategies in the Chinese Debating TV Show from the Perspective of Interpersonal Function Theory

Abstract

Taking the interpersonal function theory as the theoretical framework, this study selects the popular online talk show “Qi Pa speaking” in China as the data to analyze language strategies used by debaters to win votes and supports. The TV program, “Qi Pa Speaking”, is a new program format, which is popular with people at all ages. It is different from the traditional form of debating competition with serious atmosphere, on the contrary, the atmosphere of the show is relaxed and lively. The results show that the declarative and exclamatory moods are two frequently used strategies by the debaters. The declarative mood usually implies the earnest instruction, while exclamatory mood helps to make the arguments more convincing. The use of different moods also reflects the different personalities of the debaters.