monologue
MON-uh-log
/ˈmɒn.ə.lɒɡ/
A long speech delivered by a single actor to other characters or the audience.
Involves one speaker, but other characters are typically present on stage listening.
The story behind the word. Coined in French from Greek 'monologos'—a compound of 'monos' (alone, single) and 'logos' (speech, word). It described a scene where one performer spoke at length without interruption.
Word relationships
- speech: Speech is a general term, whereas monologue implies a theatrical or artistic context.
- address: An address is a formal public talk, while a monologue is character-driven drama.
- dialogue: Dialogue is a conversation between two or more characters, unlike a solo monologue.
Commonly confused with
- soliloquy: A monologue is heard by other characters on stage, while a soliloquy represents private thoughts spoken alone.
Word family
- monologist (noun): A person who delivers a monologue.
- monologize (verb): To speak at length without letting others talk.
Collocations
- dramatic monologue
- opening monologue
- deliver a monologue
- comic monologue
Idioms & expressions
- monopolize the conversation
Example sentences
- "The lead actress delivered a powerful opening monologue that instantly captivated the crowd." Contemporary theater
- "He spent weeks memorizing a two-minute dramatic monologue for his drama school application." Audition preparation
Memory hook
MONO means single, LOGUE means speech; a MONOLOGUE is a single person talking. One speaker taking center stage.
When not to use
Do not use when a character speaks entirely alone to themselves; that is a soliloquy.
Fun facts
- Late-night television hosts popularized the comedy monologue as a daily commentary on current affairs.
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