BORIS JOHNSON'S POLITICAL RHETORIC: STYLISTIC FEATURES AND TRANSLATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

This paper explores the stylistic and rhetorical features of political addresses delivered by English-speaking leaders during the ongoing war in Ukraine, with a focus on the period between 2022 and 2024. It provides a comprehensive overview of scholarly perspectives on stylistics and rhetoric, offering an in-depth examination of the distinctive traits found in political speech, including the linguistic tools used to persuade audiences and the classification of speech genres and types. Special attention is paid to rhetorical strategies designed to evoke emotion, such as the use of metaphors, repetition, rhetorical questions, and appeals to sentiment and how their effectiveness varies depending on contextual, cultural, and audience-specific factors. Furthermore, the paper highlights differences between American and British political rhetoric, shedding light on how each nation's leaders craft discourse to mobilize global support for Ukraine. The analysis suggests that American politicians tend to employ more emotionally charged language, relying heavily on expressive and rhetorical techniques to convey their viewpoints and shape public opinion. A case study of Boris Johnson’s oratorical style is included, showcasing his frequent use of figurative language, persuasive logic, and rhetorical constructions. Additionally, the article addresses translation-related challenges that arise from cultural and contextual disparities, which can hinder the faithful transmission of intended meanings. The study underscores the importance of precise and effective communication in global political discourse, especially during large-scale international crises like the war in Ukraine, where the implications of language choices are profound.