Discourse: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

Best used for informal or everyday interactions between people.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.