The communication power of chinese novel coronavirus pneumonia (Covid-19) news reports in light of the framing theory

Abstract

This paper attempts to use the Framing Theory and the Conceptual Metaphor Theory to explain the surface frames and deep frames often used by Chinese state media in face of the COVID-19. It discusses how the official discourse achieves its purpose of inspiring based on the audience emotion, and enables the audience to be more determined and courageous to overcome the epidemic, which best displays the communication power news reports with regard to COVID-19. It is found that Chinese official media mainly use metaphorical frames such as WAR, COMPETITION, and BARRIERS, and non-metaphorical frames such as SOLIDARITY, CONFIDENCE, and VICTORY. News reports of Chinese state media fully highlights the unity of the Chinese people in fighting against the epidemic, which helps persuade the audience to understand and trust the Chinese government and to become more determined and courageous in the battle.