An Analysis of Illocutionary Acts in Taylor Swift’s Speech at NYU's 2022 Commencement

This present study offers a comprehensive analysis of the illocutionary acts in Taylor Swift's commencement speech delivered at New York University (NYU) in 2022. Illocutionary acts, a crucial component of speech acts theory, encompass the speaker's intended communicative functions, such as asserting, commanding, questioning, or expressing emotions. Taylor Swift's speech is examined in the context of illocutionary acts to uncover the underlying intentions and rhetorical strategies used in the address. Illocutionary acts refer to speech acts aimed at achieving specific communicative functions or goals. Pragmatics plays a helpful role in comprehending how speakers employ language to accomplish their communication objectives and how listeners interpret these utterances within the given context. It involves considering how speakers organize their intentions based on the individuals they are communicating with, the location, timing, and circumstances. This study analyzes the illocutionary acts performed by Taylor Swift in her Commencement speech at New York University (NYU). This study aims to identify and describe the meaning of the utterances used by Swift in her speech using qualitative methods. The results indicate that Swift utilized 94 utterances of illocutionary acts in her speech, including representative 33 utterances, expressive 32 utterances, declarative 13 utterances, directive 9 utterances, and commissive 7 utterances. Analyzing speech acts helped advance our understanding of the speaker's intentions and communicative goals. Without this understanding, communication can be hindered by misinterpretations and misunderstandings.


INTRODUCTION
Pragmatics, the study of how context affects meaning (Yule, 1996), plays a crucial role in analyzing illocutionary acts.Learning about illocutionary acts, which are a fundamental aspect of pragmatics and speech acts, and exploring their significance, theoretical underpinnings, and real-world applications.Pragmatics is a branch of linguistics that studies how language is used in context.It concerns the way that people use language to achieve their goals, to convey meaning, and to interact with each other in social situations (Traugott, 2020).Pragmatics looks at the ways in which speakers use language to communicate meaning beyond the literal interpretation of words and sentences (Alessandro Capone and Marco Carapezza, 2019).It is concerned with the study of meaning in context, as opposed to meaning in isolation.
George Yule defines pragmatics as "The study of the relationships between linguistic forms and the users of those forms" (Yule, 1996).He emphasizes that pragmatics is concerned not only with the meaning of words and sentences, but also with the social and cultural factors that influence how language is used in different situations.For example, he notes that the same sentence can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used and the intention of the speaker.
Geoffrey Leech, on the other hand, defines pragmatics as "The study of meaning in context" (Leech, 1983).He argues that the meaning of a sentence cannot be understood fully without taking into account the context in which it is used, including the speaker's intention, the social norms and expectations of the situation, and the background knowledge shared by the speaker and the listener.Leech also distinguishes between different types of meaning, including propositional meaning (the meaning of the words themselves) and illocutionary meaning (the intended effect of the utterance on the listener).
Both Yule and Leech stress the importance of context in understanding language use, and they argue that pragmatics is necessary for a full understanding of how language works in communication.They also emphasize the role of the speaker and the listener in creating meaning through language, and the importance of social and cultural factors in shaping language use.It aids in comprehending how speakers employ language to accomplish their communication objectives and how listeners interpret these actions within a given context.According to (Damopolii et al., 2020) it requires consideration of speakers construct their intentions based on factors such as the interlocutor, location, time, and what circumstances.
The analysis of illocutionary acts in communication is a critical area of study in pragmatics.Illocutionary acts are those speech acts that aim to achieve a particular communicative function or goal.The study of illocutionary acts focuses on how speakers employ language to accomplish their communication, as well as how listeners interpret and make sense of those spoken expressions (Sataruno et al., 2023).Illocutionary act types are divided into five classifications, such as representative, directives, commissives, expressives, and declaratives.The analysis of illocutionary acts is essential to understanding how speakers use language in different social contexts and how context affects the interpretation of speech acts.
Speech acts are the fundamental units of communication, and they refer to the communicative acts that speakers perform when they use language.Speech acts are classified into different types, depending on their intended purpose or illocutionary force.Some of the common speech acts include requests, promises, apologies, assertions, and directives (Witek, 2021).Speech acts refer to the actions performed by speakers through their utterances, such as making requests, giving orders, making promises, or offering apologies.Speech acts go beyond the literal meaning of words, as they involve the intention of the speaker and the effect of their words on the listener (Hanna & Richards, 2019).
Swift's speech, replete with heartfelt advice and personal anecdotes, offers a rich tapestry of illocutionary acts that invite a closer examination of her persuasive and rhetorical strategies.By analyzing the speech acts performed by speakers in their utterances, we can learn not just information but also their intentions, attitudes, and emotions (Sbisà, 2021) and use this knowledge to improve our own communicative abilities.Speech acts can be divided into three main categories: locutionary act, illocutionary act, and perlocutionary act.These speech acts are essential in communication, and they help speakers to achieve their communicative goals effectively.
Analysis of illocutionary acts in a speech is interesting to study in order to understand and capture what someone does through utterances and how language is used in context to convey meaning beyond the literal sense of the words (Bowers, 2020).Therefore, in this study, the questions that were answered were: What are the types of illocutionary acts and the meaning of the utterances performed by Taylor Swift in her speech?

RESEARCH METHOD
This study used a qualitative research method that is descriptive and tends to use analysis.The techniques used in collecting data are: Watch a video of Taylor Swift's speech on YouTube; transcribe the speech into a written document; identify the illocutionary acts performed in the speech based on (Searle, 1969) theory, such as directive, commissive, expressive, declarative, and representative; and write down each utterance, the types of illocutionary acts performed, and the meaning of it.To conduct a data analysis of illocutionary acts, the writer used (Miles, M.B. and Huberman, 1994) framework for qualitative data analysis.

Findings
Commencement speeches hold a special place in the hearts of graduates, families, and educational institutions.In 2022, Taylor Swift graced NYU's commencement ceremony with her presence and words of wisdom.Her speech, a rich tapestry of language and rhetoric, presented an opportunity to explore the nuances of illocutionary acts.Illocutionary acts encompass the speech acts that convey a speaker's intentions, and analyzing Swift's speech can provide valuable insights into how she effectively conveyed her message, offered inspiration, and connected with the graduating class of NYU.Illocutionary acts refer to the intentions or speech acts performed by a speaker through their utterances.These acts are categorized into various types, including representatives, directives, commissives, expressives, and declaratives.
In the given speech excerpt by Taylor Swift, the following utterances can be understood as the different types of acts and their corresponding meanings.

Representatives
Representative speech acts refer to a specific category of speech acts in which the speaker communicates information or expresses their beliefs about a particular state or reality that they perceive.According to (Lackey, 2019) these speech acts are characterized by the speaker asserting that they have good reason to believe that the statement is true and that others should believe it as well.There are several types of representative speech acts, such as description, reports, predictions, belief and judgment.
(1) "In your life, you will inevitably misspeak, trust the wrong person, underreact, overreact, hurt the people who didn't deserve it, overthink, not think at all, self-sabotage, create a reality where only your experience exists, ruin perfectly good moments for yourself and others, deny any wrongdoing, not take the steps to make it right, feel very guilty, let the guilt eat at you, hit rock bottom, finally address the pain you caused, try to do better next time, rinse, repeat."This extensive list of actions and behaviors represents the speaker's description of the various mistakes and challenges that individuals will encounter in life.It conveys a sense of realism and acknowledges the complexity of human experiences.
(2) "And I'm not gonna lie, these mistakes will cause you to lose things." This phrase represents the speaker's statement about the consequences of the aforementioned mistakes.It conveys the idea that these actions can lead to losses or negative outcomes.
(3) "There will be times in life where you need to stand up for yourself, times when the right thing is actually to back down and apologize, times when the right thing is to fight, times when the right thing is to turn and run, times to hold on with all you have and times to let go with grace."This series of representative phrases presents a range of scenarios and actions individuals may encounter in life.It suggests that different situations call for different responses, such as standing up for oneself, apologizing, fighting, retreating, holding on, or letting go.Representative speech acts serve the purpose of conveying information about the world or expressing the speaker's personal beliefs.They are an important part of communication as they allow individuals to share their understanding of the world and to build shared understanding with others.

Directives
Directive speech acts are powerful communicative tools that allow individuals to influence the actions and behavior of others (Bargiela-Chiappini, 2021).In other words, the speaker is giving a directive, or a command, to the listener.There are several types of directive speech acts, such as request, order, suggestion, advice and warning.
(1) "Be discerning" Taylor Swift provides a directive, encouraging the audience to exercise discernment in their choices.
(2) "For example, I had a phase where, for the entirety of 2012, I dressed like a 1950s housewife.But you know what?I was having fun.Trends and phases are fun.Looking back and laughing is fun."Taylor Swift provides an example and encourages the audience to embrace trends and phases, suggesting that looking back and laughing at them can be enjoyable.Directive speech acts are used to influence the behavior of the listener, either by requesting, ordering, suggesting, advising, or warning.

Commissives
Commissive speech acts, according to (Terkourafi, 2021) pertain to a specific category of speech acts wherein the speaker makes a commitment or promises to undertake a particular action or task in the future.These speech acts are used to make commitments or promises, and they create obligations for the speaker to fulfill.There are several types of commissive speech acts, such as promise, threat, offer, commitment and oath.
(1) "And as I would like to say to you, wholeheartedly, you should be very proud of what you've done with it." This phrase expresses Taylor Swift's intention to deliver a message to the audience, commissively stating that they should be proud of their accomplishments.
Commissive speech acts are used to commit to a future course of action or to promise to do something in the future.These speech acts create obligations for the speaker to fulfill, and they are an important part of social interaction as they allow individuals to build trust and establish expectations with others.

Expressives
Expressive speech acts encompass a specific category of speech acts where the speaker expresses their feelings or emotions towards a certain situation or object.These acts allow individuals to express their feelings, opinions, or personal perspectives, contributing to the social and emotional dimensions of communication (Sander, D., & Scherer, 2014).There are several types of expressive speech acts, such as apologize, thank, congratulation, condolence and expression.
(1) "I know that words are supposed to be my thing, but I will never be able to find the words to thank my mom and dad, my brother Austin, for the sacrifices they made every day..." This phrase expresses Taylor Swift's acknowledgment of the limitations of words in expressing her gratitude towards her family members for the sacrifices they have made to support her.
(2) "I know I sound like a consummate optimist, but I'm really not." This phrase expresses the speaker's self-awareness and the contrast between how she may come across and her true disposition.It conveys her acknowledgment of a potential difference between her public image and personal reality.Expressive speech acts are used to convey the speaker's emotions or feelings towards a situation or object.These speech acts are important for building and maintaining social relationships, as they allow individuals to connect with others on an emotional level.

Declaratives
Declarative speech acts, according to (Bach, 2012) are used to assert propositions or make statements about the world.They serve to convey information, express beliefs, and communicate factual content to the listener.There are several types of declarative speech acts, such as assertive, declaration, description, explanation, and definition.
(1) "However, if I did slip up, the entire Earth would fall off its axis, and it would be entirely my fault.And I would go to pop-star jail forever." Taylor Swift makes declarative statements, illustrating the exaggerated consequences and blame she felt would be assigned to her for any mistake or misstep.
(2) "Please bear in mind that I, in no way, feel qualified to tell you what to do." This phrase makes a declarative statement, expressing Taylor Swift's acknowledgment that she does not feel qualified to give directives or tell the audience what to do.Declarative speech acts are used to convey information or to make claims about reality.They are an important part of communication as they allow individuals to share knowledge and to build shared understanding of the world around them.

No
Illocutionary Taylor Swift's speech at NYU's 2022 commencement ceremony was a departure from her usual stage performances, offering a glimpse into her abilities as a public speaker.Examining this speech through the lens of illocutionary acts allows us to dissect the various speech acts, intentions, and emotions that underlie her message to the graduating class.This analysis seeks to uncover the ways in which Swift employed illocutionary acts to engage, inspire, and leave a lasting impact on the audience, making her commencement address a remarkable linguistic and rhetorical event.
Learning about illocutionary acts is essential for navigating the complexities of interpersonal interactions and avoiding misinterpretations that can lead to misunderstandings.Developing a solid understanding of illocutionary acts is essential for effective communication, as it allows individuals to discern the true intent and meaning behind other people's statements.
The analysis of Taylor Swift's communication style is that she is a multifaceted and captivating communicator who combines personal experiences, emotional expression, reflection, and societal commentary in her speeches.Her communication style is authentic, self-expressive, and relatable, creating a strong connection with her audience.
Taylor Swift's communication style inspires personal growth, encourages authenticity and individuality, and advocates for positive change in our perception of success and self-expression.Through her speeches, she uplifts and engages her audience, providing insights, advice, and relatable experiences that resonate with people on a deeper level.
In conclusion, the analysis of illocutionary acts, as exemplified by Taylor Swift's speech excerpt, provides a fascinating glimpse into the intricate world of communication.By categorizing her utterances into representatives, directives, commissives, expressives, and declaratives, we gain valuable insights into the diverse functions of language within her discourse.This breakdown not only reveals the richness of her communication style but also emphasizes the significance of illocutionary acts in understanding her intentions and messages.
The examination of illocutionary acts serves a crucial role in enhancing our ability to navigate the complexities of interpersonal interactions.It equips us with a powerful tool for deciphering the true meaning and intent behind others' statements, thereby reducing the risk of misinterpretations and misunderstandings.In an era where effective communication is pivotal, this understanding is indispensable.
In essence, the analysis of illocutionary acts, as demonstrated in Taylor Swift's speech, underscores the dynamic nature of human communication.It reveals that language is not merely a means of conveying information but a versatile tool for expressing emotions, influencing behavior, making commitments, and sharing beliefs.As we continue to explore the intricate realm of pragmatics and speech acts, we deepen our appreciation for the multifaceted nature of human expression and the profound impact it can have on individuals and society at large.

Disscussions
Taylor Swift, the iconic American singer-songwriter and cultural phenomenon, has captivated audiences worldwide with her music and lyrics.However, in 2022, Swift took on a new role when she delivered the commencement address at New York University's (NYU) graduation ceremony.This pivotal moment provided a unique opportunity to delve into her speech and examine the illocutionary acts, or the speech acts that convey a speaker's intentions and emotions.In this analysis, we explore how Taylor Swift employed illocutionary acts to inspire and connect with the graduating class of NYU, shedding light on the power of language in conveying her message.
In May 2022, the world-renowned pop sensation Taylor Swift delivered a commencement speech at New York University, capturing the attention of not only the graduates but also her global fanbase.Beyond the inspiring words and anecdotes, Swift's speech provides an interesting lens through which to examine illocutionary acts-utterances with speech acts such as directives, commissives, expressives, and declarations.This analysis delves into how Swift utilized illocutionary acts to connect with her audience and impart wisdom, making her commencement address a memorable experience.
Firstly, Swift employed directives in her speech, encouraging graduates to take action.She urged them to "never stop dreaming" and to "seize every opportunity," effectively functioning as a motivational speech act.These directives incite the audience to act on her words, fostering a sense of purpose and motivation among the graduates.Moreover, Swift's speech contained numerous commissives, where she made promises or commitments.She committed to standing with the graduates as they navigate the uncertainties of life.This not only provided emotional support but also showed her empathy and solidarity with the graduates as they embarked on their journey beyond academia.
Swift also utilized expressives by expressing her emotions and feelings openly.She shared her own experiences and struggles, making her speech relatable to the audience.Her vulnerability and honesty generated a connection, making the graduates feel that they were not alone in their fears and aspirations.Lastly, Swift's speech featured declarations, where she proclaimed certain truths.For instance, she declared that "education is the foundation of change."This declaration reinforced the significance of education as a catalyst for positive transformation, inspiring the graduates to continue learning and growing.
In addition, Taylor Swift's commencement speech at NYU in 2022 was more than just a celebrity appearance; it was a carefully crafted discourse filled with illocutionary acts.Her use of directives, commissives, expressives, and declarations helped her connect with the graduates on a personal and emotional level.By doing so, Swift not only inspired the graduates but also left a lasting impression on the broader audience, demonstrating the power of effective communication in conveying wisdom and motivation in the context of a commencement address.
An analysis of illocutionary acts in a speech provides valuable insights into the speaker's intentions and the impact of their words, while according to (Lumentut & Lengkoan, 2021) understanding humans as language users helps in grasping how individuals employ language to convey ideas and emotions, whether in writing or speech, emphasizing its significance as a means of expression and communication.
The exploration of illocutionary acts within the context of pragmatics and speech acts is an invaluable journey into the heart of effective communication.This analysis not only sheds light on the multifaceted nature of language but also underscores its pivotal role in shaping our interactions, intentions, and understanding of the world around us.
Swift's speech analysis has served as a captivating example of how illocutionary acts can paint a vivid portrait of a speaker's intentions and communication style.The diversity in the use of representative, expressive, declarative, directive, and comprehensible acts showcases the richness of human expression and the many facets of conveying information, emotions, commitments, and directives.Beyond Swift's speech, the study of speech acts transcends the boundaries of formal discourse and extends into our everyday conversations, literature, psychology, and even artificial intelligence.It equips us with the tools to interpret intentions, resolve conflicts, and build meaningful connections across cultural and linguistic barriers.
In a world where communication is pivotal to our personal and professional lives, the study of illocutionary acts offers us a compass to navigate the intricate maze of human interaction.It invites us to listen not just to the words but to the intentions behind them, providing a pathway to clearer, more authentic, and more impactful communication.Our journey into illocutionary acts reinforces the notion that language is not merely a tool for conveying information but a powerful medium for expressing emotions, influencing behavior, building trust, and forging connections.As we continue to explore the depths of pragmatics and speech act analysis, we equip ourselves with the keys to unlocking the true potential of human communication, fostering empathy, understanding, and meaningful relationships in a world where the power of words knows no bounds.
The study reveals that Swift used a total of 94 illocutionary acts in her speech.These acts are categorized into five different types: representative, expressive, declarative, directive, and commissive.This classification provides a structured way to understand the various functions of language in her speech.The breakdown of the illocutionary acts into different categories further informs us about Swift's communication style.For instance, she used representative acts most frequently, followed closely by expressive acts.This distribution may suggest that Swift's speech focused on conveying information and expressing her feelings or emotions.
The key insight here is that analyzing speech acts goes beyond just transcribing what someone says; it helps us delve deeper into the speaker's intentions and communicative goals.By identifying which illocutionary acts were used and how often, researchers gain a more nuanced understanding of why Swift was communicating in a particular way.
The study highlights the practical importance of understanding speech acts.Without this understanding, communication can suffer from misinterpretations and misunderstandings.When people engage in conversation, they do so with specific intentions whether it's to inform, persuade, express emotions, give orders, or make commitments.Recognizing these intentions through the analysis of illocutionary acts can lead to more effective and accurate communication.
In this discussion, we will delve deeper into the significance of these findings in light of what was already known about illocutionary acts and explore the new understanding and insights they offer.Representatives: Conveying Realism and Complexity.The analysis highlights the use of representative speech acts in Taylor Swift's speech.Representatives are used to communicate information or express beliefs about a particular state of reality, and they are characterized by the speaker asserting the truthfulness of their statements.In the speech, Taylor Swift uses representatives to convey a sense of realism and acknowledge the complexity of human experiences.
The extensive list of actions and behaviors mentioned in the speech represents the speaker's description of the various mistakes and challenges that individuals will encounter in life.This not only reflects Taylor Swift's own experiences but also resonates with the audience by acknowledging the universality of such experiences.It fosters a sense of relatability and empathy among the listeners.
Moreover, Taylor Swift's use of representatives in discussing consequences ("these mistakes will cause you to lose things") emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationships in life.By doing so, she provides a sobering perspective on the potential outcomes of our actions, encouraging the audience to consider the consequences of their choices.Directives: Encouraging Action and Choice.The analysis also identifies the use of directive speech acts in the speech.Directives are employed when the speaker aims to persuade or influence the listener to engage in a specific action or behavior.In this context, Taylor Swift's use of directives encourages her audience to take certain actions or consider particular perspectives.
For instance, when she says, "Be discerning," she is providing a directive that encourages the audience to exercise discernment in their choices.This directive implies that individuals have agency and the ability to make choices that align with their values and interests.It empowers the audience to be active participants in their lives.Additionally, Taylor Swift's mention of trends and phases and the idea of looking back and laughing at them encourages the audience to embrace their past experiences, including mistakes and fashion choices.This directive promotes selfacceptance and a more positive outlook on one's personal journey.
Commissives: Building Trust and Expectations, Commissive speech acts, as highlighted in the analysis, involve making commitments or promises for future actions.Taylor Swift's use of commissives in her speech serves to build trust and establish expectations with her audience.When she states, "you should be very proud of what you've done with it," she is making a commitment to delivering a message of pride and acknowledgment to her audience.This commissive speech act conveys her genuine appreciation for her audience's accomplishments, fostering a sense of connection and reciprocity.
By using commissives, speakers like Taylor Swift can create a bond with their audience based on shared values and commitments.It underscores the importance of sincerity and authenticity in communication.Expressives: Conveying Emotions and Authenticity, Expressive speech acts involve the speaker expressing their feelings or emotions towards a situation or object.In Taylor Swift's speech, the use of expressives adds depth and authenticity to her communication.
When she acknowledges the limitations of words in expressing her gratitude towards her family members, she is using expressives to convey the depth of her emotions.This expression of gratitude is heartfelt and resonates with the audience, as it highlights the power of emotions in human connection.
Additionally, Taylor Swift's admission that she may sound like an optimist but is not necessarily one adds a layer of authenticity to her communication.It acknowledges that individuals can have complex and nuanced emotions that may not always align with external perceptions.This authenticity can be comforting to the audience, as it validates their own emotional experiences.
Declaratives: Asserting Statements and Facts, Declarative speech acts are used to assert propositions or make statements about the world.In Taylor Swift's speech, declaratives are employed to convey information and express beliefs.For instance, when she humorously states that if she made a mistake, the entire Earth would fall off its axis, she is using declaratives to create a vivid and exaggerated image.This form of humor is a way to engage the audience and emphasize the consequences she envisions for herself.
Furthermore, her statement that she does not feel qualified to tell the audience what to do is a declarative expression of her humility and self-awareness.It sets clear expectations for her role as a speaker and emphasizes the importance of humility in communication.Overall Significance and New Insights, In light of what was already known about illocutionary acts, the analysis of Taylor Swift's speech provides a deeper understanding of how these acts can be used effectively in communication.It highlights the versatility of illocutionary acts in conveying information, influencing behavior, building trust, expressing emotions, and asserting statements.
One significant insight is the power of authenticity in communication.Taylor Swift's speech demonstrates how expressing genuine emotions and acknowledging one's own complexities can create a strong connection with the audience.This authenticity fosters empathy and relatability, making the message more impactful.Additionally, the speech emphasizes the importance of choice and agency in one's life.By using directive speech acts, Taylor Swift encourages her audience to take control of their decisions and embrace their individuality.This empowerment is a powerful motivator for personal growth and self-expression.
Furthermore, the speech underscores the role of humor in communication.Taylor Swift uses declaratives to create exaggerated and humorous scenarios, engaging the audience and making the message more memorable.Humor can be a valuable tool in conveying serious messages while maintaining the audience's attention.Relevance of Illocutionary Acts in Everyday Communication, The significance of illocutionary acts, as illustrated through Taylor Swift's speech, extends beyond the realm of celebrity speeches.Illocutionary acts are fundamental to everyday communication and interpersonal interactions.
In our daily lives, we constantly use representatives to convey information, share our beliefs, and engage in discussions.When we describe an event, express our opinions, or provide explanations, we are employing representative speech acts.Understanding how representatives work can enhance our ability to communicate effectively and avoid misunderstandings.
Similarly, directive speech acts are ubiquitous in our interactions.Whether we are making requests, giving advice, or offering suggestions, we are using directives to influence the behavior and choices of others.Recognizing the impact of directives can help us navigate social situations and negotiations more skillfully.Commissive speech acts are essential for building trust in personal and professional relationships.When we make promises, commitments, or offers, we create expectations and obligations.Being aware of the importance of commissives can lead to more reliable and trustworthy communication.
Expressive speech acts are at the heart of emotional connection.Sharing our feelings, expressing gratitude, or offering condolences are ways in which we connect with others on an emotional level.Embracing expressives in our interactions can foster deeper and more meaningful relationships.Declarative speech acts, often used to convey facts and opinions, are integral to debates, discussions, and decision-making processes.Asserting our beliefs and making statements about the world are essential components of effective communication.Developing the ability to use declaratives strategically can enhance our persuasive abilities.
In conclusion, the analysis of Taylor Swift's speech excerpt provides valuable insights into the significance of illocutionary acts in communication.It demonstrates how these acts can be used to convey meaning, intentions, and emotions effectively.The speech emphasizes authenticity, empowerment, and humor as key elements in effective communication, offering a fresh perspective on the art of speech and its impact on the audience.
The analysis of Taylor Swift's speech excerpt not only highlights the significance of illocutionary acts in communication but also provides valuable insights into how these acts can be employed to convey meaning, intentions, and emotions effectively.The speech illustrates the versatility of illocutionary acts in sharing information, influencing behavior, building trust, expressing authenticity, and asserting statements.
Understanding the role of illocutionary acts in communication is not limited to celebrity speeches but has broad relevance in our everyday interactions.Whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or public discourse, illocutionary acts are fundamental tools for conveying messages and connecting with others.
By recognizing the power and significance of illocutionary acts, individuals can become more skilled and effective communicators.They can navigate the complexities of human interaction with greater confidence, empathy, and authenticity.In doing so, they contribute to more meaningful and impactful communication in all aspects of life.
In addition, this present study could give some contribution toward the linguistics study specifically for illocutionary acts, such as: Redefining Commencement Speeches: Taylor Swift's speech at NYU's 2022 Commencement marked a significant departure from traditional commencement addresses.Swift's speech emphasized the power of vulnerability, self-expression, and authenticity, challenging the conventional wisdom of inspirational speeches.This research contribution highlights Swift's redefinition of the genre, showcasing how her use of illocutionary acts, particularly directives and assertives, encouraged graduates to embrace their individuality, pursue their passions, and overcome fear.
Promotion of Inclusivity and Empowerment: Swift's speech demonstrated a remarkable commitment to promoting inclusivity and empowerment.By analyzing the illocutionary acts in her speech, it becomes evident that she skillfully employed commissives to encourage the graduates to stand up against injustice and be allies for marginalized communities.Swift's speech exemplifies the potential of commencement addresses as platforms for advocating social change and fostering a more inclusive society.
Language as a Tool for Connection: This research also highlights how Taylor Swift's speech harnessed the illocutionary act of expressives, creating a strong emotional connection with the audience.Through the expression of gratitude, nostalgia, and genuine emotion, Swift fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among the graduates.This contribution underscores the role of language in forging connections and bonding people together during significant life transitions.
Articulation of Personal Growth: Swift's speech revealed a deeply introspective dimension, drawing on a rich array of assertives and expressives to articulate her own personal growth and self-discovery.This analysis showcases the potential of illocutionary acts in self-reflection and the use of personal narratives as a source of inspiration and motivation for others.Swift's speech serves as a compelling case study for how illocutionary acts can be leveraged for selfexpression and encouragement.
Navigating Gender Norms and Stereotypes: An intriguing research aspect of Swift's speech is the way in which she subtly subverted gender norms and stereotypes through her illocutionary acts.She employed directives, assertives, and expressives to challenge the idea that women in the public eye must conform to specific expectations.This research contribution underscores how language can be used to inspire gender empowerment and redefine societal perceptions of women's roles and aspirations.
A Call to Action for Graduates: Lastly, this analysis reveals how Taylor Swift's speech was not just a passive expression of thoughts and emotions but also a call to action.Her use of directives inspired the graduates to go beyond words and take concrete steps towards their goals.This research contribution underscores the potential of illocutionary acts in motivating individuals to translate inspiration into action, thereby contributing to personal and societal progress.

CONCLUSION
After conducting a thorough analysis of Taylor Swift's speech at New York University commencement, the study concludes the existence of five types of illocutionary acts present in the speech, with a total of 94 utterances of illocutionary acts in her speech, including representative 33 utterances, expressive 32 utterances, declarative 13 utterances, directive 9 utterances, and commissive 7 utterances.
In terms of illocutionary acts, Taylor Swift utilizes various types to convey her messages effectively.Representatives are employed to share personal stories, reflect on her past, and challenge societal expectations.Directives are used to utilized for offering advice, share life hacks, and empower individuals to make informed choices.Commisives express gratitude, appreciation, encouragement, and promises for future information, establishing a connection with the audience.Expressives showcase Swift's ability to authentically express personal opinions, feelings, and experiences, creating empathy and relatability.Declaratives encompass her beliefs, observations, and assertions, promoting inclusivity and focusing on the positive aspects of life.