GENDER CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MODESTY MAXIM IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK LANGUAGES AND THEIR SOCIOLINGUISTIC ANALYSIS

Using a sociolinguistic approach, this paper investigates the gender-specific application of the modesty maxim in English and Uzbek languages. Geoffrey Leech's modesty maxim—a tenet of politeness theory—emphasizes reducing compliments aimed at oneself and increasing compliments aimed at others. Linguistic traditions, cultural standards, and social expectations all affect gender variations in using this maxim. This comparative research shows how male and female English and Uzbek speakers use modesty in conversation, therefore stressing the effect of sociocultural elements on language behavior. The results show notable differences in the use of modesty techniques, which reflect more general cultural ideas on gender roles in both language groups.