Discourse analysis - Definition and Overview

Discourse analysis is a general term for a number of approaches to analysing language use beyond the sentence or clause level. This can either be written (text) or spoken. Some of the main approaches of Discourse Analysis are Speech Act Theory, Interactional Sociolinguistics, Variation Analysis, Conversation Analysis, which is based on the theories of Harvey Sacks, and Discursive Psychology, particularly as developed by Jonathan Potter. Discourse Analysis is a vast and multidisciplinary area, with influences from sociology, linguistics, anthropology and psychology. Each of the various approaches tend to be particularly influenced by one of these subjects, which bring their own presumptions and methodologies.