SUBSTITUTION IN LINGUISTICS AND ITS ROLE IN COHESION

Abstract

This study investigates substitution in linguistics and its role in achieving textual cohesion. Substitution is considered a grammatical cohesive device that replaces linguistic elements such as words, phrases, or clauses to avoid repetition and ensure smooth discourse flow. The research adopts a discourse analysis approach using a qualitative descriptive method to examine substitution patterns in Map of the Soul: 7 in the World of BTS by Murray Stein. The data consist of utterances containing different types of substitution identified across four chapters: Introduction, Persona, Shadow, and Ego. The findings reveal the presence of nominal, verbal, phrasal, and clausal substitutions, with varying frequency and functional distribution. The study also identifies additional patterns such as levels of substitution (high and low) and chained substitution. The results indicate that substitution plays a significant role in maintaining cohesion, improving readability, and avoiding redundancy in discourse.