Discourse analysis is the study of how language is used in communication. It looks at written, spoken, or visual texts to understand the meanings behind words and how they shape our thoughts and social interactions. By examining the context, tone, and structure of communication, researchers can uncover the underlying messages and power dynamics present in conversations. This approach is often used in fields like sociology, linguistics, and communication studies. For example, analyzing political speeches can reveal how politicians persuade audiences or how media influences public opinion. Ultimately, discourse analysis helps us understand the role of language in our everyday lives.