Language and Social Hierarchy in Crash Landing on You: A Critical Discourse Analysis

Abstract

Language functions not only for communication but also as a representation of social hierarchy and power relations in society. This study aims to identify linguistic forms representing social hierarchy, analyse power relations between characters, and explain discourse strategies used to maintain or challenge social hierarchy in the drama Crash Landing on You. The study employs a qualitative descriptive method, using dialogue selected through observation, documentation, and purposive sampling. Analysis used Norman Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis, John Searle’s Speech Act Theory, and Brown and Levinson’s Politeness Theory. The findings show that directive, polite, and expressive language predominates in representing hierarchical relationships. Power relations are reflected through commands, formal expressions, conversational control, and politeness strategies. In addition, honorifics, indirect politeness, questions, and forms of resistance function to maintain or challenge social hierarchy. The study concludes that language is a non-neutral social practice that actively reflects and shapes ideology, authority, and existing power structures in society.