A Semiotic Analysis Of Linguistic Transvestism Via Female-Centered Sexism

Abstract

Pakistan is a multilingual country known for its male- centered social and cultural structure. Apparently, men seem to be the superordinate stakeholders and women form only a subordinate fraction but the cultural scenario is rapidly changing. Women are no more the domesticated part of society. They are working side by side with males. The Pakistanis are gender-conscious and tend to stereotype almost everything including language, foods, drinks, colors, dresses even professions. Hence, there are professional fields which are believed to be fit only for men and those thought to be suitable only for women. It is considered derogatory for men to work in female-related fields. The phenomenon is creating an interesting picture on the linguistic canvas. In the female-related professions where men are working, a new communication style is emerging which seems to be an absolute joie de vivre for the males as it is accompanied by economic payoff. These men have a double-edged gender identity. The diversion in their communication style is responsible for the linguistic changes aforementioned. This article delves into the contemporary culture of Pakistan to find out what is happening in the professional settings where men are working in the stereotypically female-related professions.