THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL DIMENSIONS ON LANGUAGE STYLE: A SOCIOLINGUISTICS ANALYSIS OF THE LOKI SERIES IN DISNEY+

Abstract

This study investigates how social dimensions influence language style in Loki season 1. The analysis employs Martin Joos’ (1967) framework of language styles and Janet Holmes’ (2013) concept of social dimensions, using a qualitative descriptive approach based on character dialogues. The findings reveal 5 instances of Formal Style, 37 of Consultative Style, 35 of Casual Style, and 3 of Intimate Style, while Frozen Style does not occur. The dominance of Consultative and Casual Styles indicates that most interactions take place in semi-formal or friendly contexts. Social dimensions, including status, social distance, and formality, strongly shape language choices: authority figures such as Ravonna and Mobius use formal or consultative styles, whereas Loki and Sylvie frequently employ casual or intimate styles to reflect closeness and emotional intensity. These results demonstrate that language style in the series is systematically influenced by social relationships and institutional contexts, highlighting the role of language in constructing character identity and interaction.