eloquent
EL-uh-kwunt
/ˈɛləkwənt/
Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing; expressing feelings or thoughts vividly.
Carries an element of aesthetic beauty, grace, and emotional resonance alongside persuasion.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'eloqui', formed from 'e-' (out) and 'loqui' (to speak). An eloquent person speaks out from the heart, sending moving words into the world.
Word relationships
- persuasive: Persuasive focuses on altering opinions, whereas eloquent stresses artistic expression.
- articulate: Articulate emphasizes precision over emotional power.
- ineloquent: Lacking grace or persuasiveness in speech.
Commonly confused with
- glib: Eloquent implies deep feeling and artistic mastery, while glib implies superficial slickness without real depth.
Word family
- eloquence (noun): Fluent or persuasive speaking or writing.
- eloquently (adverb): In a fluent and persuasive manner.
Collocations
- eloquent speech
- eloquent defense
- eloquent silence
- eloquent advocate
Example sentences
- "His eloquent speech at the ceremony moved many listeners to tears." Public speech
- "Her silence was more eloquent than any words could have been." Non-verbal communication
Memory hook
E-LOQUENT speakers make words leap OUT (e-) with LOQUacious charm. Words that speak directly out of the soul.
When not to use
Avoid using for blunt, analytical summaries that lack emotional warmth or grace.
Fun facts
- The root 'loqui' is also found in 'loquacious', 'soliloquy', and 'colloquial'.
Related words
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