This study aims to analyze the indirect speech act in the film Imperfect: Karir, Cinta & Timbangan through a pragmatic stylistic approach. The focus of this research is (1) the stylistic form used in indirect speech and (2) the pragmatic function of speech in the context of its use. The study uses a descriptive qualitative design with a purposive sampling technique on the speech of characters that contain implications. Data is collected through observation, dialogue transcription, and systematic recording, then analyzed by integrating stylistic and pragmatic aspects. The results of the study show that indirect speech acts are realized through three main forms, namely interrogative, declarative, and expressive, with the dominance of interrogative and declarative forms. From the stylistic side, it is found that the use of ellipses, expressive particles, hyperbole, metaphors, hedging, and lexical contrast functions to regulate the level of assertiveness, refine meaning, and build implications. This distribution shows that speakers strategically choose language forms according to social context and communication goals. From the pragmatic side, the directive function becomes dominant, followed by assertive, expressive, and persuasive. Indirect speech is used to direct actions, convey judgment, express attitudes, and influence speech opponents without direct pressure. These functions are supported by certain stylistic choices, thus forming a systematic relationship between the form of language and the purpose of communication. This research confirms that pragmatic stylistics is able to explain the integration between language style and communication function in building indirect meaning. Indirect speech in the film reflects not only linguistic phenomena, but also social practices that show how speakers manage meaning, interpersonal relationships, and ideologies through strategic language choices.
Publication Date: 2026-06-18