PECULIARITIES OF ENGLISH MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY AND DISCOURSE IN MEDICAL DRAMAS: A CASE STUDY OF “GREY’S ANATOMY”

Abstract

This article focuses on the representation and adaptation of English medical terminology in popular media, with a particular focus on the topical problem of professional discourse analysis. Based on Grey’s Anatomy, the research examines how complex medical terminology is simplified to make it more understandable for a wide range of viewers. While the series is often praised for its accurate description of hospital life, the study has also indicated that medical terminology is intentionally changed and simplified through a variety of discursive techniques. It has been revealed that scientific accuracy and storyline clarity are combined in medical dramas. In addition, the research has studied the etymology and prevalence of certain etymological groups as well as other semantic components of medical terminology. When examining the medical terms used in the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, it has been uncovered that Greek-derived prefixes and suffixes are more common than Latin ones.This tendency coincides with and proves the series’ emphasis on pathology and surgical procedures, which mainly use Greek elements and words. Examples of actual-life discussions include techniques such as analogical explanations, metaphorical simplifications, and didactic asides, in which senior physicians describe procedures to interns. Quantitative observations have revealed that anatomical and physiological terms are more frequent than pharmacological or medical equipment vocabulary. It reflects a practical balance between precision and better viewer comprehension. The article also situates “Grey’s Anatomy” within the broader context of medical discourse popularization and frames the series as a cultural mediator that introduces expert knowledge to everyday linguistic consciousness. Medical discourse in TV series goes beyond terminology. It helps tell stories, build relationships, highlight ethical dilemmas, and reflect society’s views on medicine.