Critical discourse studies (CDS) is an interdisciplinary field that examines the relationship between language, power, and society. It focuses on how discourse—spoken or written communication—shapes and reflects social practices, ideologies, and power dynamics. Researchers analyze texts and conversations to uncover underlying meanings and social implications, often addressing issues like inequality, discrimination, and political influence. CDS draws on theories from linguistics, sociology, and cultural studies, making it a diverse area of research. Scholars in this field may study various contexts, such as media representations, political speeches, and everyday conversations, to understand how language contributes to social change and reinforces or challenges dominant ideologies.