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Conversationally: meaning, definitions and examples

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conversationally

 

[kənˈvɜːrsəˌveɪʃənlɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

type of conversation

Conversationally refers to speaking or engaging in a conversation in a casual or informal manner. It implies a style of communication that is relaxed and friendly, as opposed to formal or scripted language.

Synonyms

casually, chattily, informally, talkatively.

Examples of usage

  • She explained the topic conversationally.
  • They discussed their plans conversationally over coffee.
  • He prefers to address his audience conversationally.
  • The teacher spoke conversationally to help students feel at ease.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'conversatio', meaning 'to keep company with' or 'to live with', emphasizing the sociable nature of the term.
  • It has been used in English since the late 15th century, growing from 'conversation', which means an exchange of ideas or thoughts.
  • The suffix '-ly' is a common way to transform adjectives into adverbs, indicating how something is done.

Communication Styles

  • Conversational style is defined by a relaxed tone, using everyday language that feels informal and approachable.
  • People often use gestures, facial expressions, and voice tone to enhance connection when speaking conversationally.
  • This style contrasts with formal speech, where the use of technical jargon and rigid structure is more prevalent.

Psychology

  • Engaging in conversations can help improve mental health by fostering connections and reducing feelings of loneliness.
  • Studies show that people who engage in regular, friendly conversations report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
  • Conversational flow can stimulate brain activity, making interactions beneficial for cognitive function.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows often portray characters establishing relationships through conversationally written dialogue, emphasizing character development.
  • Podcasting has become a popular medium for conversationally exploring topics, allowing listeners to feel included in a friendly dialogue.
  • Stand-up comedians rely on conversational styles to engage audiences, creating a sense of intimacy in their performances.

Literature

  • Many authors adopt conversationally styled narratives to create a connection with their readers, making stories feel more relatable.
  • Dialogues in novels often reflect realistic conversational tones, capturing the nuances of human interactions.
  • The use of conversational language is common in children's books, engaging young readers through accessible and friendly dialogue.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,885 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.