Multivocality: meaning, definitions and examples

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multivocality

 

[ˌmʌltiˈvəʊkælɪti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

linguistics

The state of having multiple voices or perspectives. It refers to the presence of different meanings or interpretations within a single text or discourse.

Synonyms

diversity of perspectives, multiplicity of voices, variety of interpretations.

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Word Description / Examples
multivocality

Used in academic and intellectual discussions, especially within literature, arts, and social sciences, to describe a situation where multiple and sometimes conflicting voices or perspectives are presented.

  • The novel's multivocality allows readers to experience the story from various viewpoints.
  • The artist's work is celebrated for its multivocality, engaging audiences with different interpretations.
multiplicity of voices

Emphasizes the presence of numerous individual opinions or viewpoints, typically used in contexts where representation and inclusivity are important.

  • The conference highlighted a multiplicity of voices, ensuring no single narrative dominated the conversation.
  • In her book, she captures a multiplicity of voices to portray the complexity of the issue.
diversity of perspectives

Often used in discussions about inclusivity and critical thinking, emphasizing the importance of having a range of viewpoints to enhance understanding and decision-making.

  • The panel ensured a diversity of perspectives by including experts from various fields.
  • Promoting a diversity of perspectives in the classroom can enrich students' learning experiences.
variety of interpretations

Refers to the different ways a particular subject or piece of work can be understood or explained, often used in contexts like literature, performance, and analysis.

  • The film allows for a variety of interpretations, each offering a unique insight into the director's vision.
  • Critics provided a variety of interpretations of the new play, showcasing its depth and complexity.

Examples of usage

  • Her poem is a perfect example of multivocality, as it can be interpreted in various ways by different readers.
  • In academic discussions, multivocality is often encouraged as it leads to a richer understanding of complex issues.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'multi,' meaning many, and 'vocality,' which comes from 'vocal,' relating to the voice.
  • It first emerged in discussions about literature and cultural studies, emphasizing diverse perspectives.
  • The suffix '-ity' signifies a quality or condition, indicating the state of having multiple voices.

Cultural Significance

  • Multivocality is crucial in multicultural societies where different backgrounds coexist and share experiences.
  • In literature, multivocal narratives can provide a richer understanding of themes by presenting various character viewpoints.
  • Art forms like collage or graffiti often represent multivocality by bringing together different styles and messages.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that engaging with multivocal perspectives can enhance empathy and understanding among individuals.
  • In group settings, embracing multivocality can lead to more creative problem-solving and innovation.
  • Negative group dynamics can occur when some voices are silenced, highlighting the importance of inclusive dialogue.

Education

  • Teachers encourage multivocality through collaborative activities, helping students learn from diverse opinions.
  • Multivocality in the classroom promotes critical thinking, as students must evaluate and incorporate various viewpoints.
  • Curricular choices that reflect multivocality can lead to a more inclusive education, representing diverse cultural heritages.

Technology

  • Digital platforms facilitate multivocality by allowing users to share opinions, artworks, or experiences across communities.
  • Social media can amplify multivocality but also risks oversimplifying complex discussions into trending hashtags.
  • Crowdsourcing knowledge through forums or collaborative platforms exemplifies multivocality in action.

Translations

Translations of the word "multivocality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 multivocalidade

🇮🇳 बहुवचनता

🇩🇪 Mehrstimmigkeit

🇮🇩 multivokalitas

🇺🇦 мультивокальність

🇵🇱 wieloznaczność

🇯🇵 多声性 (たせいせい)

🇫🇷 multivocalité

🇪🇸 multivocalidad

🇹🇷 çok seslilik

🇰🇷 다성

🇸🇦 تعدد الأصوات

🇨🇿 mnohoznačnost

🇸🇰 mnohoznačnosť

🇨🇳 多声性 (duō shēng xìng)

🇸🇮 večpomenskost

🇮🇸 fjölraddleiki

🇰🇿 көпмәнділік

🇬🇪 მრავალხმიანობა

🇦🇿 çoxsəslilik

🇲🇽 multivocalidad