THE POLITICAL NATURE OF PERIPHRASIS IN ENGLISH

This thesis explores the role of periphrasis in English political discourse, focusing on how indirect language functions as a strategic rhetorical device. Periphrasis, often viewed as a stylistic element, is shown to serve deeper ideological purposes, such as softening controversial statements, avoiding accountability, and shaping public perception. The study examines how political figures use vague, euphemistic, or passive constructions to influence meaning, obscure agency, and maintain authority. It also considers the sociolinguistic and psychological implications of such language use, particularly its impact on transparency and public trust. The thesis emphasizes that periphrasis is not only a linguistic choice but also a reflection of power dynamics in political communication.