discourse

Discourse refers to the way language is used in communication to convey meaning within a particular context or topic. It involves more than just individual words or sentences; it encompasses how ideas flow and relate across larger stretches of conversation, text, or speech. Discourse shapes understanding by establishing relationships, social norms, and shared knowledge between participants. It is studied to understand how language constructs social reality, influence perceptions, and facilitate interaction in various settings—from casual conversations to academic writing. Essentially, discourse is the structured, meaningful use of language in social communication.