The Rhetoric of Physics: Analysing Scientific Discourse through Literary and Linguistic Lenses

Abstract

Physics is traditionally viewed as a field defined by mathematical precision and empirical rigour, yet its communication relies deeply on language and metaphor. This study explores how rhetorical and linguistic elements shape the discourse of physics, thereby affecting how scientific knowledge is constructed, interpreted, and understood. Through rhetorical and discourse analysis of selected academic and popular physics texts, the research examines how linguistic devices, such as metaphor, analogy, and syntactic framing, mediate between abstract theory and conceptual comprehension. Findings reveal that scientific communication is not purely objective but inherently persuasive and interpretative. Recognising the rhetorical nature of physics discourse can enhance science teaching, communication, and interdisciplinary understanding.