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Discourse: meaning, definitions and examples

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discourse

 

[ˈdɪskɔːs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in communication

Discourse refers to spoken or written communication, especially in a formal manner. It involves the exchange of ideas, opinions, and information between individuals or groups. Discourse can also refer to a particular way of speaking or writing that is characteristic of a particular person, group, or culture.

Synonyms

communication, conversation, dialogue, talk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
discourse

Used in formal or academic settings to refer to a serious and extended discussion.

  • The professor delivered a discourse on modern philosophy.
  • In academic discourse, precision and clarity are critical.
conversation

Best used for informal or everyday interactions between people.

  • We had a friendly conversation over dinner.
  • Their conversation was mostly about the upcoming vacation.
dialogue

Often used to describe a formal or structured exchange of ideas, sometimes involving conflict resolution.

  • The two parties entered into a dialogue to resolve their differences.
  • International dialogue is crucial for maintaining peace.
communication

Applicable in a broad range of scenarios where information or ideas are exchanged between people.

  • Effective communication is key to a successful relationship.
  • Modern communication methods include email, social media, and instant messaging.
talk

Commonly used for informal discussions or speeches, often in a more casual setting.

  • Can we have a talk about your recent behavior?
  • The guest speaker gave an inspiring talk.

Examples of usage

  • The professor's discourse on the topic was both informative and engaging.
  • The political discourse in the country has become increasingly polarized in recent years.
Context #2 | Noun

in linguistics

In linguistics, discourse refers to a unit of language larger than a single sentence. It can include conversations, speeches, or written texts. Discourse analysis is the study of how language is used in social contexts.

Synonyms

communication, conversation, speech, text.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
discourse

Formal discussions or written exchanges on a particular topic, often in academic, intellectual, or professional settings.

  • The conference featured a range of scientific discourses on climate change.
  • Her dissertation opens with a detailed discourse on the ethical implications of AI.
conversation

Informal spoken exchange of thoughts, ideas, or feelings between two or more people.

  • We had a pleasant conversation over coffee.
  • Their conversation was filled with laughter and storytelling.
communication

The process of sharing information, feelings, or ideas between individuals or groups, encompassing both verbal and non-verbal methods.

  • Effective communication is key to a successful team.
  • Non-verbal communication, like body language, plays a significant role in how messages are received.
speech

A formal address or talk delivered to an audience, often in a public setting or ceremony.

  • The president's speech was widely covered by the media.
  • She gave a moving speech at the graduation ceremony.
text

Written or printed material, particularly when considered as a medium for conveying information, stories, or ideas.

  • The textbook is filled with dense, academic text.
  • She sent a quick text to confirm the meeting time.

Examples of usage

  • The discourse analysis revealed patterns of communication within the group.
  • The politician's discourse resonated with the audience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'discursus,' meaning 'running to and fro,' which reflects the back-and-forth nature of conversation.
  • It was first adopted in English around the 14th century, originally referring to spoken communication.
  • Over time, it evolved to encompass both spoken and written forms of communication.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Michel Foucault explored how discourse shapes our understanding of truth and reality.
  • Discourse can reveal not just what is said, but also what is unsaid, influencing social norms.
  • Different types of discourse exist, such as academic, political, and everyday conversation, each with its own rules.

Cultural Studies

  • Cultural discourse examines how language reflects and influences societal values and power dynamics.
  • In media studies, scholars analyze how discourse can shape public opinion and identity.
  • Narrative discourse is a popular area of study that looks at how stories are constructed and communicated.

Literature

  • In literature, discourse often refers to the language and style used by characters and narrators throughout a text.
  • George Orwell’s '1984' illustrates how language can manipulate and control thought through its controlled discourse.
  • Narrative discourse can include elements like point of view and structure, shaping how a story is experienced.

Communication Studies

  • Effective discourse is essential for persuasion and negotiation in both personal and professional settings.
  • Nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, play a significant role in discourse.
  • Discourse analysis is a research method that examines how language is used in social contexts, aiming to uncover meanings and relationships.

Translations

Translations of the word "discourse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discurso

🇮🇳 विचार-विमर्श

🇩🇪 Diskurs

🇮🇩 diskursus

🇺🇦 дискурс

🇵🇱 dyskurs

🇯🇵 論説（ろんせつ）

🇫🇷 discours

🇪🇸 discurso

🇹🇷 söylem

🇰🇷 담론 (damron)

🇸🇦 خطاب

🇨🇿 diskurz

🇸🇰 diskurz

🇨🇳 话语 (huàyǔ)

🇸🇮 diskurz

🇮🇸 ræða

🇰🇿 дискурс

🇬🇪 დისკურსი

🇦🇿 diskurs

🇲🇽 discurso

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,592, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.