Gender-Based Differences in the Usage of Compliments in Shona

How gender is encoded and reflected within a language helps in understanding the nature and stature of women and men in any given society. This study looked at how men and women use compliments towards each other and the different types of situations that compliments are used. In collecting data, the researchers used a qualitative research design.The purpose of using qualitative research design was to understand and interpret social interactions, thus, understanding how compliments are passed by one gender to the opposite gender and be able to interpret the reactions evoked. Data were collected using observations and document analysis. Data were analysed using content analysis. The findings from this study show significant differences in complimenting behaviour across gender groups in Shona. The findings elucidated the different types of compliments namely positive, negative, sincere, explicit and explicit compliments. Also the study took note of the different responses given to compliments which are accepting, rejecting and neutral response. Both males and females are shown to use compliments and respond to them but in different ways. When it comes to males one can clearly note that males use compliments to manipulate and show dominance over women. This shows that men tend to be cunning and expect to have their way around so easily.