DEIKTIS: Jurnal Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra
Vol. 5 No. 4 (2025)

Linguistic Ambiguity in The Lyrics of Ariana Grande’s song : A Literary Interpretation

Risna Tamrin (Universitas Fajar)
Rindu Ainum (Universitas Fajar)
Winda Limbong Gayang (Universitas Fajar)
Bahar Bahar (Universitas Fajar)
Basri Basri (Universitas Fajar)
Fitriana Fitriana (Universitas Fajar)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study aims to identify types of linguistic ambiguity in Ariana Grande’s songs using Stephen Ullmann’s framework and to interpret the multiple meanings created in the lyrics. Using a qualitative textual analysis, the research examines five songs Supernatural, No Tears Left to Cry, Break Free, Bloodline, and 7 Rings. The data consist of official lyrics obtained from AZLyrics and analyzed through identification, classification, and interpretation stages. The findings show two types of ambiguity: lexical ambiguity, which is dominant through polysemy, metaphors, and unclear pronoun references, and grammatical ambiguity through structures such as double negatives. Phonetic ambiguity does not appear. The study concludes that ambiguity is intentionally used as an artistic strategy, enriching emotional depth and expanding interpretive possibilities for listeners.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

deiktis

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

DEIKTIS: Journal of Language and Literature Education is an academic journal published in April, August and December by the Indonesian Muslim Lecturer Association. This journal presents scientific articles on Learning, Education, Literature, Linguistics, ...