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The Linguistic Mapping of MBTI Feeling and Thinking Personalities in Sensibility and Rationality

Author(s)

Zhijian Xu*

Affiliation(s)

Foreign Languages College, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

This study explores the differences in linguistic expression between Feeling (F) and Thinking (T) personality types within the MBTI framework, and how these differences map onto their respective thinking styles. Grounded in Humboldt's theory on the relationship between language and thought and the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, this paper compares the linguistic characteristics of these two personality types in terms of lexical choice, syntactic structure, and rhetorical devices. Through the analysis of textual samples describing the Chinese New Year's Eve dinner, the study finds that Feeling types tend to use emotionally charged, metaphorical, and empathic expressions, focusing on conveying emotional experiences and interpersonal connections. In contrast, Thinking types prioritize objective listing of facts, logical reasoning, and structured expression, demonstrating a preference for rational analysis and critical evaluation. The findings not only validate language as a tool for externalizing and reinforcing thought but also offer insights into optimizing language strategies in education and workplace communication based on different personality characteristics.

Keywords

MBTI; Feeling Personality; Thinking Personality; Language and Thought; Textual Analysis

References

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