Parroting: meaning, definitions and examples

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parroting

[ˈperətɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

imitate without understanding

To repeat or imitate without understanding the meaning or significance; to mimic or copy without comprehension.

Synonyms

copy, imitate, mimic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parroting	This is often used when someone repeats what another person says without understanding it, usually in a negative or critical tone. The student was just parroting what the teacher said without understanding the concept. He kept parroting the slogan without knowing what it actually meant.
imitate	Imitate is used when someone tries to replicate someone else's actions, behavior, or style, often to learn or understand better but can be used neutrally or positively. Children often imitate their parents' behavior. He tried to imitate the cooking techniques of the famous chef.
mimic	Mimic is usually used when someone copies the way another person speaks or acts, often in a humorous or mocking way. The comedian could mimic the president's voice perfectly. She mimicked her friend's mannerisms to make everyone laugh.
copy	This word is used when someone reproduces or duplicates something, whether it's tasks, actions, or written work. It can be neutral or negative depending on the context. She copied the notes from her friend's notebook. The artist was accused of copying someone else's work.

Examples of usage

The child was just parroting the words without knowing what they meant.
She was accused of parroting the politician's speeches without truly comprehending the issues.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

repetition without original thought

Repetition of someone else's words or ideas without adding any original thought or insight.

Synonyms

echoing, reiteration, repetition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parroting	Parroting refers to mindlessly repeating someone else's words without understanding or thinking about their meaning. This word often carries a negative connotation. She was just parroting the company's slogan without understanding what it really means. The student was criticized for parroting the textbook rather than thinking critically about the material.
repetition	Repetition is the simple act of repeating something. It can be used in various contexts, including everyday conversation, teaching, and writing. It is neutral and can be positive or negative depending on the context. Repetition is key when learning a new language. The repetition of the phrase made the poem more powerful.
echoing	Echoing is used when someone repeats what another person has said, usually to show agreement or to emphasize the same point. This word can be neutral or carry a slight negative connotation if overused. He kept echoing her concerns during the meeting. Her speech echoed the sentiments of the entire team.
reiteration	Reiteration is the act of repeating something, often for emphasis or clarification. It is used in formal or serious contexts, such as official announcements or important discussions. The company's reiteration of its commitment to customer service was well received. His reiteration of the rules helped ensure everyone understood the expectations.

Examples of usage

His writing was criticized for being mere parroting of existing theories.
The students were guilty of parroting the textbook instead of engaging with the material.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'parrot' comes from the Middle French word 'perroquet', which means a small parrot.
The act of parroting is named after these birds, known for mimicking human speech.
In linguistic studies, 'parroting' refers to the repetition of phrases or ideas without processing them.

Psychology

Parroting can be a sign of strong social learning, where individuals mimic behaviors they observe.
In therapy, practitioners may use echoing techniques to help clients reflect on their thoughts and feelings.
Over-relying on parroting in communication may hinder authentic understanding and engagement.

Education

In classrooms, teachers sometimes encourage parroting to help students learn vocabulary or important concepts.
While parroting can aid memorization, experts suggest balancing it with critical thinking activities.
Parroting is often critiqued in educational settings when students repeat answers without comprehension.

Pop Culture

In movies and cartoons, characters often mimic others in a humorous or exaggerated way, showcasing fun interpretations of parroting.
Famous quotes from movies are frequently repeated in pop culture, changing their context through constant parroting.
Social media can amplify parroting as trends and catchphrases spread quickly among users, affecting online conversations.

Translations

Translations of the word "parroting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 replicação

🇮🇳 नकल करना

🇩🇪 Nachahmung

🇮🇩 menirukan

🇺🇦 підробка

🇵🇱 parafrazowanie

🇯🇵 模倣する

🇫🇷 imitation

🇪🇸 imitación

🇹🇷 taklit

🇰🇷 모방

🇸🇦 تقليد

🇨🇿 napodobování

🇸🇰 napodobovanie

🇨🇳 模仿

🇸🇮 posnemanje

🇮🇸 eftirlíking

🇰🇿 көшірмелеу

🇬🇪 გადმოწერა

🇦🇿 təqlid

🇲🇽 imitación

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,403, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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37400 inuring
37401 imperiling
37402 plebe
37403 parroting
37404 paunchy
37405 tempura
37406 unblocking
...