The power of naming in a time of conflict

Abstract

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has captivated global attention, sparking heated debates and shaping international relations. Geopolitical complexities often overshadow the crucial, and frequently ignored, power of naming. This article addresses the framing of the conflict by comparing the naming terms used by Russian, US and Chinese media to refer to the Russia–Ukraine conflict. The research focuses on the pragmatic implications of naming terms, exploring how they influence understanding of the event’s causes and consequences, and contribute to the construction of narratives. The analysis reveals that the media outlets from Russia, the US and China have taken different stances in presenting the situation in Ukraine, reflecting the unique geopolitical interests and values of their respective countries. The study shows that, through the use of specific descriptors, media outlets construct narratives in order to influence public perceptions of the conflict and to present political actors positively, negatively, or neutrally.