A Genre Analysis of Rumor Refutal on Sina Weibo

Waner Bin

doi:10.63313/LLCS.9011

Authors

Waner Bin School of International Studies, Hangzhou Normal University, No. 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63313/LLCS.9011

Keywords:

Rumor Refutation, Genre Analysis, Sina Weibo, Digital Misinformation, Author-itative Communication, Move Structure, Interdiscursivity, Media Literacy

Abstract

In the digital era, social media platforms have accelerated the spread of both in-formation and misinformation, making effective rumor refutation essential. This study conducts a genre analysis of rumor refutation posts on Sina Weibo by examining the practices of the authoritative account Chinese Internet Joint Ru-mour Refutal Platform. Analyzing 20 selected posts from three key sections: “Today’s Rumor Refutation,” “Today’s Science Popularization,” and “Today’s Tips”, the research deconstructs the move structure underlying these posts. The findings reveal that a systematic sequence of moves, including rumor identifica-tion, detailed description, factual refutation, and source citation, combined with the strategic use of linguistic, visual, and rhetorical resources, enhances the credibility and effectiveness of the refutations. Moreover, the interplay between these sections illustrates an interdiscursive approach that not only debunks misinformation but also promotes public media literacy and legal awareness. These insights contribute to our understanding of online communication strate-gies in combating digital misinformation.

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