Semantic-pragmatic markers of direct evidentiality in Russian-language perfume blogging

The aim of this study is to develop a semantic-pragmatic typology for direct evidentiality markers used by perceivers in Russian perfume blogging to verbalize their own olfactory experience. The article defines the role of the category of direct evidentiality and experientiality in perfume criticism discourse. Various linguistic means marking direct evidentiality are examined, and the identified markers are systematized according to semantic-pragmatic types. The scientific novelty of the research lies in developing a typology of direct evidentiality that determines the meanings of direct attestation of fragrance in perfume criticism discourse, thus bridging a gap in discourse-oriented studies of information reflecting the cognitive experience of the speaker. The research material comprises 150 texts authored by bloggers maintaining Russian-language perfume-themed channels (the Telegram channels “Fragrantius” and “Dukhi naiznanku”). The results of the study revealed that verbal markers of direct evidentiality refer to four types of meanings: a) characterizing possession of an object (substance), b) its use and manipulation, c) its psychophysiological impact on the subject, and d) dependence on or attraction to it. This indicates the multifaceted nature of direct attestation and reflects the olfactory experience of the perceiver – the subject of perfume criticism.