Interlocutor: meaning, definitions and examples

🗣️

Add to dictionary

interlocutor

[ˌɪn.tərˈlɑː.kjuː.tər ]

Definitions

^{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?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Latin, where 'inter-' means 'between' and 'locutor' means 'speaker'.
It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe someone who talks to another.
In French, the word is 'interlocuteur', which holds the same meaning and reflects the word's Latin roots.

Communication Studies

Interlocutors play crucial roles in dialogue, affecting the flow and meaning of conversations.
They can take on various roles in discussions, such as facilitator, opponent, or collaborator.
Effective interlocutors often possess good listening skills and empathy, improving the quality of the interaction.

Cultural Context

In different cultures, the role of an interlocutor can change; some cultures may value assertiveness, while others prioritize harmony.
Interlocutors can influence social dynamics in group settings, impacting outcomes in negotiations and discussions.
Literature often features interlocutors in dialogues to convey complex themes and character dynamics.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Plato used dialogues with interlocutors to explore ideas, demonstrating the value of discussion for understanding concepts.
The effectiveness of interlocutors is essential in Socratic questioning, where asking the right questions can lead to deeper insights.
Meaning can shift significantly depending on who the interlocutor is and how they respond.

Pop Culture

In film and literature, strong interlocutor characters drive the plot by engaging the protagonist in pivotal conversations.
Talk shows often feature interlocutors as hosts or guests, showcasing interactions that can entertain and inform audiences.
The portrayal of interlocutors in TV dramas often highlights emotional conflict and relationship dynamics.

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

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.

...
20365 canvassing
20366 beneficence
20367 mutuality
20368 interlocutor
20369 excitability
20370 repast
20371 laxity
...