Power and Language

Political Power

The power held by the government, police, those working in law courts, etc.

Personal Power

Power held as a result of one's occupation.

Social Power

Power derived from social factors such as age, intelligence, wealth, class, and gender.

Instrumental Power

Power maintained or enforced by those in specific occupations or positions, such as judges or policemen.

Influential Power

Power that comes from social influence rather than enforced authority, affecting behavior through respect or admiration.

Power Asymmetry

A situation where one speaker or institution holds significantly more power over another, leading to unequal encounters.

Oppressive Discourse Strategy

A direct and straightforward communication style that reflects overt power, such as 'Tidy your room'.

Repressive Discourse Strategy

An indirect communication style that minimizes status differences and emphasizes solidarity, like 'I wonder what’s on TV? Could you bring the remote?'

Power and Language

The way language changes based on power dynamics, affecting conversation and reader/writer relationships.

Synthetic Personalisation

The technique where texts aimed at a broad audience appear personal by using direct address and engaging language like 'you' or 'friend'.

Vocatives

Words or phrases used to address someone or get their attention.