ANALYZING DISCOURSE MARKERS IN YOUTUBE PODCAST: A CASE STUDY OF “HOW TO STOP INSECURITY & TRULY LOVE YOURSELF TO THE CORE” WITH SELENA GOMEZ AND JAY SHETTY

Abstract

Discourse markers (DM) are important linguistic elements that can help speakers to organize their discourse and
convey interpersonal messages to engage more effectively in communication. This study explores the use of DMs
in a podcast video entitled “How to Stop Insecurity & Truly Love Yourself to the Core”, featuring Selena Gomez
and Jay Shetty. The main goals of this research are to recognize the different kinds and purposes of discourse
markers used in casual conversations between these two renowned individuals. The results of the analysis reveal
the presence of four distinct discourse marker types: cognitive markers, structural markers, referential markers,
and interpersonal markers, each with its specific functions. Notably, the most frequently observed discourse
marker is the cognitive marker “like”, especially used for self-correction and clarification. This research not only
contributes to the understanding of DMs but also emphasizes their crucial role in shaping and enriching informal
communication among speakers of diverse backgrounds and contexts