Examples of discourse and context:
1. Political Speech
• Discourse: "We must unite to fight for our future."
• Context: A politician delivering a speech during an election campaign.
• Meaning: The statement is a call for collective action to address national issues.
• Shift in Context: If the same statement is made in a family gathering, it could mean resolving
personal conflicts.
2. Social Media Post
• Discourse: "Just landed in Paris! #BucketList"
• Context: A travel blogger posting on Instagram.
• Meaning: The post shares excitement about achieving a personal goal.
• Shift in Context: If posted by a refugee fleeing conflict, it could imply relief or survival.
3. Advertisement
• Discourse: "Because you're worth it."
• Context: A cosmetics ad targeting women.
• Meaning: The message empowers women to invest in themselves.
• Shift in Context: If used in a financial ad, it could encourage spending on luxury items.
4. Classroom Interaction
• Discourse: "Can you explain this again?"
• Context: A student asking a teacher during a lecture.
• Meaning: The student seeks clarification.
• Shift in Context: If asked in a casual conversation, it could imply confusion or disbelief.
5. Doctor-Patient Conversation
• Discourse: "You need to rest for a week."
• Context: A doctor advising a patient after a medical check-up.
• Meaning: A professional recommendation for recovery.
• Shift in Context: If a parent says this to a child, it could be a disciplinary measure.
6. News Headline
• Discourse: "Economy recovers after recession."
• Context: A newspaper headline during a period of economic growth.
• Meaning: Positive news about economic improvement.
• Shift in Context: If the headline appears in a satirical magazine, it could be sarcastic.
7. Job Interview
• Discourse: "Tell me about yourself."
• Context: An interviewer asking a candidate.
• Meaning: A request for a professional summary.
• Shift in Context: If asked on a first meeting, it seeks personal information.
8. Religious Sermon
• Discourse: "Love thy neighbor."
• Context: A pastor delivering a sermon in a church.
• Meaning: A moral lesson about kindness and compassion.
• Shift in Context: If used in a political speech, it could advocate for social unity.
9. Text Message
• Discourse: "See you at 8."
• Context: A text from a friend about meeting for dinner.
• Meaning: A casual confirmation of plans.
• Shift in Context: If sent by a boss, it could imply a formal meeting.
10. Public Protest
• Discourse: "No justice, no peace!"
• Context: A chant during a protest against police brutality.
• Meaning: A demand for accountability and fairness.
• Shift in Context: If used in a workplace dispute, it could mean employees demanding fair
treatment.
11. Movie Dialogue
• Discourse: "I'll be back."
• Context: Arnold in The Terminator.
• Meaning: A threat or promise of return.
• Shift in Context: If said by a friend leaving a party, it’s a casual farewell.
12. Historical Document
• Discourse: "All men are created equal."
• Context: The U.S. Declaration of Independence.
• Meaning: A statement about human rights and equality.
• Shift in Context: If used in a modern debate, it could highlight ongoing struggles for equality.
13. Customer Service Interaction
• Discourse: "How can I assist you today?"
• Context: A customer service representative answering a call.
• Meaning: A professional offer to help.
• Shift in Context: If asked by a friend, it could imply concern or curiosity.
14. Wedding Vows
• Discourse: "I do."
• Context: A couple exchanging vows during a wedding ceremony.
• Meaning: A commitment to marriage.
• Shift in Context: If said in a courtroom, it could be an agreement to tell the truth.
15. Sports Commentary
• Discourse: "What a goal!"
• Context: A commentator during a soccer match.
• Meaning: Excitement about a team scoring.
• Shift in Context: If said sarcastically, it could mock a poor performance.
