A Critical Pragmatic Study of Contextual Metaphors as Covert Identity Markers in Closed Discourse Communities
Abstract
The study explores the function of metaphors as indexical diacritics of identity in closed groups. It considers the function of local parlances in shaping identity, membership and boundary for small groups like corporate teams, gaming guilds, activist organisations and first responders. The importance of metaphors for meaning transfer and construction has been acknowledged. The function of metaphor in society has not been adequately investigated, particularly with respect to small group interactions and their impact on society. The study investigates the use of metaphors regarding membership and boundaries by resorting to notions from conceptual metaphor theory, pragmatics and critical discourse analysis. The analysis showed that metaphors are crucial for creating a cohesive group and contributing to well-interacting members. But, this positive side has a negative flipside - it nurtures elitism and exclusion that poses ethical dilemma for its proponents including leaders of organizations. The paper is a contribution to the field of sociolinguistics and society as well as future research on online groups and subcultures.
How to Cite This Article
Basim Jubair Kadhim (2026). A Critical Pragmatic Study of Contextual Metaphors as Covert Identity Markers in Closed Discourse Communities . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 7(3), 114-120. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2026.7.3.114-120
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