Colloquial: meaning, definitions and examples

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colloquial

 

[ kəˈloʊkwiəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

informal language

Colloquial refers to the use of informal or conversational language that is characteristic of spoken communication rather than formal writing. It often includes idioms, slang, and regional dialects, making it a vital part of everyday speech.

Synonyms

common, conversational, informal, slangy, vulgar

Examples of usage

  • His colloquial style made the lecture more engaging.
  • She used colloquial terms that resonated with the audience.
  • The book features colloquial expressions to reflect the characters' backgrounds.

Translations

Translations of the word "colloquial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 coloquial

🇮🇳 सामान्य बोलचाल का

🇩🇪 umgangssprachlich

🇮🇩 kasar

🇺🇦 розмовний

🇵🇱 kolokwialny

🇯🇵 口語的な

🇫🇷 familier

🇪🇸 colloquial

🇹🇷 gündelik

🇰🇷 구어체의

🇸🇦 عامية

🇨🇿 hovorový

🇸🇰 hovorený

🇨🇳 口语的

🇸🇮 pogovorni

🇮🇸 málfar

🇰🇿 ауызекі

🇬🇪 საუბრობრივი

🇦🇿 danışıq dili

🇲🇽 coloquial

Word origin

The term 'colloquial' originates from the Latin word 'colloquialis', which is derived from 'colloquium', meaning 'conversation'. This Latin term is a combination of 'com-', meaning 'together', and 'loqui', which means 'to speak'. The usage of 'colloquial' in the English language emerged in the late 19th century to describe the informal language used in everyday conversation, distinguishing it from more formal or literary styles. Over time, the word has come to encompass various forms of speech, including regional dialects and slang, thereby highlighting the dynamic nature of language as it adapts to social contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,319, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.