The distinctive features of diplomatic discourse as the language of the profession

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33910/1992-6464-2026-219-231-239

Keywords:

discourse, diplomatic discourse, professional discourse, language of the profession, international communication

Abstract

Introduction. This article examines diplomatic discourse as a specialized language of professional communication within international relations. The language of diplomacy not only reflects the established system of international interaction but also functions as a tool for shaping and constructing political reality; therefore, its study and conceptualization within the framework of discourse theory are of particular importance. An analysis of diplomatic discourse makes it possible to identify specific features in diplomats’ professional communication, as well as the mechanisms through which political meanings are produced and transmitted. This study aims to identify the characteristics of diplomatic discourse as a distinct professional language.

Materials and Methods. The methodological framework is based on the principles of discourse theory and employs an interdisciplinary approach. The empirical data comprise resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and a selection of diplomatic statements. These materials were analyzed not only from a linguistic perspective but also within their respective political and historical contexts. The study employed content analysis, comparative analysis, and systems analysis to examine diplomatic discourse as a complex phenomenon.

Results. Diplomatic discourse can be regarded as a distinct type of institutional discourse, characterized by several stable features. Its key attributes include high contextual dependence, regulation, a performative nature, the continuity of diplomatic traditions, and an orientation toward achieving the foreign policy objectives of the state. It is noted that, in addition to specialized professional terminology, diplomatic language is characterized by established protocol and etiquette formulas, as well as complex syntactic structures.

Conclusions. The study refines the approaches to defining the concept of ‘diplomatic discourse’, traces its relationship with institutional and professional discourses, and identifies its distinctive features. These findings may be applied in further theoretical and practical analyses of diplomatic communication.

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Published

2026-05-08

Issue

Section

Philological Sciences

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