Linguistic Features In Academic Writing: A Multidimensional Analysis

Abstract

This study explores the distinctive linguistic features present in academic writing by Pakistani university students, using a Multidimensional (MD) analysis. The research examines various linguistic aspects in English-language academic papers, focusing on the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Sciences in English as a Second Language (ESL) contexts. By employing both established Biber (1991) dimensions and novel factor analysis, the study reveals vital findings: Humanities students tend to use more narrative styles with a higher frequency of first-person pronouns and past tense, while Science students favour factual, objective writing with increased use of nominalizations and passive voice constructions. Social Sciences lie in between, blending both narrative and informative approaches. Furthermore, Pakistani academic writing exhibits a higher frequency of hedging devices and modal verbs, reflecting a cultural tendency toward indirectness and politeness. These findings highlight how local educational systems, languages, and cultural norms shape academic writing in Pakistan. This research provides valuable insights for improving academic writing instruction and material development, particularly in ESL contexts.