Applying CDA/SFG in editorials to show power relations and ideology in language use

Abstract

Language is not just interplay between textual structures and social issues in the society. Other than semantics, morphology, and grammar aspects, language is an important avenue for influencing, changing, and shaping people’s ideologies and power relations in the society. The paper explores use of language in American media tabloids in creating power and ideologies among in the society. In this regard, CDA and SFG analyses are applied to explore the thematic issues under redress considering articles published in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Walls Street Journal. Exposition of CDA and SFG’s field, tenor, and mode reveal hidden results to support this position. Editorial boards of mainstream media tabloids are in influential position to determine content of publications to influence readers. Written texts are important in perpetuating ideologies and power relations in the society.