Propositional or non-propositional, that is the question: A new approach to analyzing ‘interpersonal metadiscourse’ in editorials

In metadiscourse studies, there remains an area deemed to be too fuzzy to be discussed in detail: the distinction between the propositional and non-propositional material. Despite the fact that this distinction is central to metadiscourse studies, the question of boundaries remains a major issue. Thus, the purpose of this article is two-fold: to address the problem of the distinction between propositional and non-propositional material in ‘interpersonal metadiscourse’ and to attempt to find a solution to this problem by the use of functional and syntactic approaches. Its second purpose is to propose a categorization for ‘interpersonal metadiscourse’ applicable to editorials based on the above discussion.

► Clarifying proposition/non-proposition boundary using functional and syntactic tools. ► Proposing a clear grouping of interpersonal metadiscourse applicable to editorials. ► Observing the use of negation expressing counter-expectancy showing attitude. ► Observing a new way of using we referring to a third party (often the government).