discourse
Definitions
Formal or extended discussion of a subject in speech or writing
论述，演讲，谈话
The broader written and spoken communication around a topic (academic/social)
话语（围绕某主题的整体表达体系）
To speak or write at length on a subject
详谈，论述
Root Breakdown
Root-deriveddis- (about, in various directions) + course (running, from cursus) = a 'running about' of words. Originally the mind running over a subject; now an extended discussion, or the whole body of talk around a topic (political discourse, public discourse).
Root car still carries 96 more wordsWhy It Means This
Picture thought running back and forth over a topic — that's the original image of dis- (about) + course (run). From there it became 'a reasoned discussion,' and in modern academic and social use, 'discourse' names the entire conversation a society has about something: media discourse, public discourse on climate.
Usage Guide
Stress shift: the noun is DIS-course (more common), the verb dis-COURSE (formal, rare). The modern social-science sense ('public discourse,' 'the discourse') is now very common online.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The book is a discourse on modern ethics.
- 2.
Social media has changed public discourse.
- 3.
He discoursed at length on the history of jazz.