11/14/2025
How Fox News Uses Language To Shape Emotion and Influence Viewers
Ever notice how certain words keep popping up on Fox News? This chart shows how often specific suggestive phrases appear in their commentary. These aren’t random. They’re used to trigger emotion, create fear, and frame political conversations before you even hear the details.
Here’s the breakdown.
1. “They hate” – 18 percent
This is the biggest slice. It frames whole groups as enemies. It’s designed to create an “us vs. them” mindset so viewers feel under attack.
2. “Fake news” – 15 percent
A classic tactic for discrediting any opposing perspective. Once a viewer accepts this frame, they stop trusting information outside the bubble.
3. “Hoax” – 12 percent
Used to dismiss real issues before they can be discussed. It shuts the door on nuance.
4. “Deep state” – 10 percent
A phrase that pushes the idea of hidden enemies within government. It feeds distrust and keeps audiences on edge.
5. “Invasion / open borders” – 10 percent
Immigration topics are often framed as threats instead of policies. The wording intentionally amplifies fear.
6. “Anarchy / chaos” – 8 percent
Used to paint opponents as dangerous or irresponsible without addressing actual policy.
7. “Radical / socialist” and “Elites” – 7 percent each
Labels that simplify complex issues down to one emotional punch.
8. “Crime wave” – 7 percent
Even when crime trends down nationally, the phrase keeps viewers feeling unsafe.
9. “Replacement” – 6 percent
A highly charged phrase tied to conspiracy narratives. It’s used to push demographic fear.
⸻
Why does this matter?
These words aren’t neutral. They’re emotional triggers. When you hear them over and over, they shape how you feel, how you vote, and how you see other people.
