Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Interlocutor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🗣️
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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'interlocutor'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

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.