Discourse characteristics of toponim headings (on the example of english, french, russian railway texts)

Abstract

This article explores the discursive characteristics of headings with toponyms in English, French, Russian texts on railway topics. The classification of identified toponyms is presented. The attractive function of a heading with a toponym is analyzed as a language tool with a maximum communicative load. It helps to attract the reader's attention within its content. Attention is focused on the phatic, or contact-establishing, function of the title with the toponym – the addressee is interested in continuing communication by obtaining further information of interest to him or clarifying information from the published text. Comparison of the functioning of toponyms in the headings of English, French, Russian texts made it possible to establish their similar discursive characteristics, attractive and phatic functions. It is noted that the headlines of the studied publications containing information about certain aspects of the railway industry, important events and achievements allow, through the prism of geographical objects of various states, to see the significant socio-economic role of the modern railway industry on a global scale.