Masculine and Feminine Language: A Conceptual Paper on Theoretical Triangulation

This conceptual paper examines the theoretical triangulation of the Dominance Model, Genderlect Theory, and Deficit Theory to provide a more nuanced perspective on masculine and feminine language. By categorising these theories based on their associated linguistic features, the analysis interprets how gender, power relations, and communicative aims shape language use in ways that evoke strong audience responses. While masculine language is often characterised by directness and authority, and feminine language by empathy and indirectness, this paper proposes that relying on a single-framework analysis limits understanding. Instead, the paper seeks to demonstrate the application of theoretical triangulation in promoting more reliable, valid, and nuanced interpretations of gendered communication. Furthermore, this approach reveals how these frameworks can offer both complementary and competing explanations, thereby transcending traditional reductionist labelling in linguistic research.

theoretical triangulation, masculine language, feminine language

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