The Use of Mock Politeness as a Communicative Strategy by Kenyans on �

Abstract

Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏 function as a community of language users where language is not just a tool of communication, but an instrument for achieving social goals where they use language to navigate social interactions, have fun, critique leaders and assert their social identities. This paper examines the use of mock politeness as a communicative strategy by Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏. With a focus on their language, the study discusses how mock politeness helps Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏 discuss various social, political and economic issues around this virtual space. Impoliteness theory by [1] Culpeper (1996) helps to analyze how impolite language is used in this virtual space. A qualitative research approach is used in the study as the data is linguistic. Purposive sampling technique was used to select tweets that showed how mock politeness impoliteness strategy was used by Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏. A guiding card was used to collect and place data collected in various categories. Content analysis method was also used to analyze data that was collected. This research is im portant as it helps to understand how Kenyan 𝕏𝕏 users employ mock politeness to express themselves and negotiate power dynamics on 𝕏𝕏. The study sheds light on the communicative practices of Kenyan 𝕏𝕏 users