Introduction to Discourse Studies

Summary

I used to think language was just about speaking or writing words, but studying discourse completely changed that perspective. Discourse is about how we use language in real situations, and how every word carries meaning depending on the context, the speaker, and the listener. It isn’t just grammar or vocabulary—it’s about the choices we make to express ourselves, influence others, or show who we are.

Discourse analysis teaches us to notice these choices. For example, a teacher explaining a topic, a friend joking with an emoji, or a news article reporting an event—all are forms of discourse. The same sentence can mean something completely different depending on who says it, where it is said, and why. Understanding this makes communication feel much richer and more layered than I ever realized.

Reflection: Discourse in My Daily Life

Living between two worlds—speaking Khowar at home in Chitral, and using Urdu or English at university in Islamabad—I see discourse in action every day. I adjust the way I speak depending on who I’m talking to. Chatting with my parents feels warm and relaxed, while speaking in class feels formal and structured. Even small things, like which words I choose or whether I use humor or emojis, reflect who I am in that moment.

I’ve started noticing discourse in places I hadn’t before. On social media, I pay attention to captions, hashtags, and emojis to see how people present themselves and influence others. At school, group discussions show how classmates shift tone to explain, persuade, or entertain. Shopping is another example—I notice how advertisements use persuasive language, slogans, and catchy phrases to make me want a product. Even simple things like asking for a coffee in a café versus sending a text to a friend show different levels of formality and choice of words, reflecting the social context.

Even public spaces are full of discourse. Street signs, posters, and billboards are carefully designed with words, colors, and fonts to communicate messages clearly or grab attention. I also see it in conversations with neighbors or in markets, where the way people speak can show politeness, humor, or authority depending on the situation.

All these examples made me realize that discourse is everywhere—in texts, conversations, online posts, and the world around us. It’s not just about sharing information; it’s about creating meaning, connecting with others, and showing identity. Studying discourse has made me more aware of how I speak and how others communicate. I now see language as a living, social tool that is powerful, flexible, and full of meaning.