Interlocutor: meaning, definitions and examples

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interlocutor

 

[ ˌɪn.tərˈlɑː.kjuː.tər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

conversation partner

A person who takes part in a conversation or dialogue with another person.

Synonyms

communicator, conversationalist, dialogue partner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interlocutor

Used in formal or academic contexts to refer to someone participating in a conversation or dialogue. It emphasizes the roles within the communication process.

  • The researcher carefully listened to his interlocutor's arguments during the debate.
  • Each interlocutor presented their viewpoints respectfully.
conversationalist

Describes someone skilled in engaging in conversations, often used in more casual or social contexts. It highlights the person's ability to keep a discussion interesting and flowing.

  • He is known for being a great conversationalist at parties.
  • As a conversationalist, she could talk about a variety of topics effortlessly.
dialogue partner

Refers to someone who participates in a dialogue, typically emphasizing cooperation and mutual exchange of ideas. It is often used in diplomatic or collaborative contexts.

  • During the peace talks, each delegate had a dialogue partner from the opposing side.
  • The dialogue partners worked together to find common ground.
communicator

Refers to someone who conveys or exchanges information effectively in various settings, such as business, public speaking, or writing.

  • She is an excellent communicator, able to convey complex ideas clearly.
  • Effective communicators are essential in team environments.

Examples of usage

  • She was a great interlocutor during the debate.
  • The interlocutor asked thought-provoking questions.
Context #2 | Noun

linguistics

In linguistics, the term 'interlocutor' refers to a participant in a conversation or discourse.

Synonyms

participant, speaker, talker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interlocutor

This term fits formal or professional dialogues where individuals exchange ideas or arguments.

  • During the debate, she addressed her interlocutor with respect.
  • He was an engaging interlocutor who brought out the best in the conversation.
participant

Use this word in a context where someone takes part in an event, such as a meeting, discussion, or activity.

  • There were thirty participants at the workshop.
  • Each participant had a unique perspective to share during the discussion.
speaker

Ideal for describing someone who delivers a speech or speaks publicly, often used in formal settings like conferences or assemblies.

  • The keynote speaker captivated the audience with her insights.
  • He was invited as a guest speaker at the university.
talker

Informal term for someone who engages in conversation, often implying someone who talks a lot. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation depending on the context.

  • He's a great talker, and always has interesting stories to share.
  • Sometimes, being a talker can be annoying if you're not a good listener.

Examples of usage

  • The linguist studied the interaction between interlocutors in the conversation.

Translations

Translations of the word "interlocutor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interlocutor

🇮🇳 वार्ताकार

🇩🇪 Gesprächspartner

🇮🇩 pembicara

🇺🇦 співрозмовник

🇵🇱 rozmówca

🇯🇵 対話者 (たいわしゃ)

🇫🇷 interlocuteur

🇪🇸 interlocutor

🇹🇷 muhatap

🇰🇷 대화 상대 (대화 상대)

🇸🇦 محادث

🇨🇿 interlokutor

🇸🇰 interlokútor

🇨🇳 对话者 (duìhuà zhě)

🇸🇮 interlokutor

🇮🇸 viðmælandi

🇰🇿 әңгімелесуші

🇬🇪 მოსაუბრე

🇦🇿 müsahib

🇲🇽 interlocutor

Etymology

The word 'interlocutor' originated in the late 16th century from the Latin word 'interlocut-,' meaning 'spoke between.' It has been used in English to refer to a person engaged in a conversation or dialogue, especially in formal or academic contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,368, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.